Registered dietitian-nutritionists have warned Nigerians against boiling unwashed, unpeeled eggs in the same pot with rice, citing the risk of bacterial contamination and foodborne illnesses.
The experts explained that harmful microorganisms, including *Salmonella* and *E. coli*, may be present on eggshells and can spread to rice during cooking, potentially exposing consumers to infections.
According to the nutritionists, the risk arises because rice begins absorbing water as soon as it is placed in the pot, including during the period when the water is heating up but has not yet reached boiling point.
They noted that although high temperatures can destroy many harmful bacteria, contamination may occur before the water reaches a full boil, allowing microorganisms to transfer from the eggshells into the rice.
The warning was reported on Monday, September 28, following interviews with registered dietitian-nutritionists who highlighted the potential health consequences of the common cooking practice.
One of the experts, James Oloyede, a registered dietitian-nutritionist and former Director of Nutrition Services and Health Education at the Osun State Primary Health Care Development Board, explained that rice could absorb contaminated water during the cooking process.
He stressed that the possibility of bacterial transfer makes cooking eggs and rice together a food safety concern, even when the eggs appear clean.
Another registered dietitian-nutritionist, Charles Oguikpe, also warned that contaminants from poultry droppings could remain on eggshells and potentially spread to other foods during preparation.
The experts further explained that eggshells can crack while boiling, allowing egg whites or yolks to spill into the rice and affect its taste, appearance and smell.
Possible Health Consequences
The nutritionists warned that consuming food contaminated with harmful bacteria could result in foodborne illnesses, with symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever and vomiting.
In severe cases, certain bacterial infections may lead to complications requiring medical attention, particularly among vulnerable individuals.
They also cautioned that the financial and health consequences of treating foodborne infections could outweigh the money saved by combining the two foods during cooking.
What Nigerians Should Do
The dietitians advised households to cook eggs and rice in separate pots as a precaution against cross-contamination.
They emphasised that proper food handling and preparation should take priority over efforts to save cooking time, water or gas.
Although rice and eggs remain nutritious food choices that can be enjoyed together as part of a balanced meal, the experts maintained that preparing them separately is the safer approach.
The warning has renewed conversations about everyday cooking habits in Nigerian households, particularly practices adopted to reduce the cost of cooking gas and simplify meal preparation.
ALSO READ:Tragedy: Mother Kills Her 8-Month-Old Daughter With Rat Poison
Hope you find the Above publication useful, Calabargist will love to keep you updated via our newsletter by subscribing with your email.
