Paul Hollywood insists eggs belong outside the fridge

In the UK, the debate surrounding egg storage has once again come to the forefront, following a video posted by Paul Hollywood, a well-known television chef and judge on 'The Great British Bake Off.' In this video, he expressed his view on why eggs should not be refrigerated, sharing with his followers that he personally keeps his eggs outside the fridge and only brings them to room temperature when needed. This sparked conversations among his audience about the proper way to store eggs. Hollywood noted that while he prefers to store eggs outside, in the United States, the processing of eggs is done differently, thus leading to the common practice of refrigeration. This distinction between the UK and the US egg storage practices has raised questions about best practices for consumers across different regions. While Paul Hollywood's stance aligns with certain traditional practices in the UK, nutritionist Kate Llewelyn-Waters added her perspective, emphasizing that the method of storage can depend on how one intends to use the eggs. Llewelyn-Waters suggested that eggs used for dishes like mayonnaise should ideally be kept in the refrigerator to maintain the firmness of yolks, while eggs designated for frying or poaching can be stored at room temperature, as cold eggs can affect cooking times negatively. She provided a tip for those who choose to keep their eggs refrigerated, advising them to avoid the egg holders in the refrigerator door due to excessive disturbance from frequent opening and closing. Despite the differing opinions on egg storage, the British Egg Industry Council staunchly supports refrigeration as the optimal method for extending the shelf life of eggs. They and other food safety experts recommend storing eggs on the middle shelf of the fridge—a location that maintains a consistent, cooler temperature—rather than in the door, which is often warmer. This practice aligns with the guidance provided by various food safety organizations in the UK. This discussion is part of a broader discourse regarding food safety and storage practices that has seen celebrities and professionals alike weighing in. The conversations not only highlight cultural differences in food storage but also bring attention to the significance of understanding the underlying reasons for these recommendations, as highlighted by both Hollywood and Llewelyn-Waters, expanding public knowledge regarding egg usage and safety.