What is the primary protective function of the natural coating known as the cuticle or bloom on Irish eggs?
Answer
Preventing bacteria and moisture from penetrating the porous shell.
The cuticle, also referred to as the bloom, is a microscopic outer coating naturally present on eggs produced in the European Union, including Ireland. This layer serves as a crucial, natural seal. Its primary function is to act as a barrier, effectively preventing moisture loss from the interior and, critically, stopping external contaminants such as bacteria from passing through the porous shell structure into the egg's contents. Because Irish production regulations prohibit washing or wiping this layer off before sale, the egg retains this vital defense mechanism, allowing for safe storage at ambient temperatures for a reasonable duration.
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