In recent months, the price of a dozen eggs has risen notably in grocery stores. The problem appears to be two-pronged — one infectious and one inflationary. The avian flu resulted in many chickens becoming ill, which reduced the availability of eggs. Secondly, the price of chicken feed increased significantly, which also contributed to higher prices. Given these recent events, it’s even more important to adhere to proper egg-handling logistics. Implementing best practices when it comes to egg transport and storage has become that much more important, given these recent events. And of course, it’s simply important from the standpoint of quality of service. With this in mind, the following revisits proper egg-handling logistics as it pertains to collection, storage and transport. By following these guidelines, the risk of further losses and rising prices can be kept to a minimum.
Initial Collection Procedures for Eggs
In terms of proper egg-handling logistics, protocols should start during the collection process. Egg harvesting is typically done after feeding times to reduce stress for the chickens, which promotes better egg production. Once collected, transport to a storage or retail facility should occur within 36 hours. Whether automated or manual in nature, these same principles apply to best practices. In addition, suitable collection trays and dividers should be used to reduce damage and loss. The best trays involve those that optimize space and allow efficient collection and storage activities. With the use of such trays, supply chain processes can proceed much more smoothly and efficiently. Thus, even before egg transport, decisions involving collection can greatly impact quality results.
Best Practices for Egg Storage
When it comes to egg storage procedures, the USDA requires specific precautions to be taken. Notably, all egg storage locations must be kept at 45 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. This prevents potential infectious organisms from spoiling or contaminating the eggs. In addition, eggs must not be placed directly on the ground but elevated on pallets or some other type of structure. This further prevents damage and potential egg contamination. Storage areas should be routinely cleaned and disinfected and maintain a climate that is dry and low in humidity. And finally, storage areas must be animal controlled and kept free of birds, rodents, dogs and cats. While some of these procedures may seem obvious, ensuring they are in place is essential. These reflect proper egg-handling logistics from a storage perspective.
Egg Transport Logistics
Naturally, proper egg handling logistics extends to egg transport procedures. Here too, the USDA has specific guidelines about how these consumer goods should be managed. Like egg storage, egg transport should occur within containers at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures increase the risk of contaminations, including those related to Salmonella. In addition, entry and exits from the transport vehicle should be restricted as much as possible. Restricting the number of people moving in and out of the transport vehicle reduces the potential for damage or contamination as well. Likewise, vehicles should be cleaned routinely and disinfected periodically, just as storage facilities are. And finally, eggs should be well secured within the transport vehicle regardless of whether they are on pallets or trays. All of these procedures, as well as proper documentation, reflect the best egg-handling logistics practices.
What to Eggs-Pect for the Future?
For the near term, egg prices are expected to remain higher than normal as a result of recent events. But there will be some degree of recovery in the coming months as the avian flu outbreak subsides. But whether egg prices return to normal will greatly depend on inflation and recessionary pressures. Therefore, egg-handling logistics will remain important in an effort to maximize egg supplies and minimize egg losses. From collection to storage to egg transport, best practices should be pursued. By adhering to these standards, those in supply chain logistics can do their part in keeping egg prices as low as possible.