What do egg grades mean

Grade AA eggs are most frequently used for frying, poaching and hard boiling. They are clean, crack-free and traditionally shaped. The egg whites will still be clear and relatively firm. The egg yolk will be pretty much centered, defect-free and still show a somewhat defined outline. Grade A eggs are also ideal for frying, poaching and hard boiling, but can be put to use for any purpose.

The shell of a grade AA egg should be clean and presentable. Grade AA eggs are ideal for poaching, frying and using for any dish in which appearance is important. Grade A eggs are the second highest quality of eggs and the type most commonly sold in grocery stores. The yolk of a grade A egg must meet the same standards as a grade AA, standing up high and free from defects.

The white is the biggest difference between a grade A and AA egg. Grade A whites are slightly less thick and firm that grade AA whites.

The shells of grade A eggs must be clean, although minor defects are accepted, unlike grade AA eggs. Grade A eggs are suitable for most any general baking or cooking need. Grade B eggs are the lowest quality of eggs available for purchase. Grade B eggs are rarely sold in stores and are commonly used for commercial liquid and powdered egg products. The white of a grade B egg is thin and watery.

The yolk is wide and flat, holding a far less uniform shape than the yolks of grade AA and A eggs. The shells of grade B eggs must be unbroken, but they commonly have stains and noticeable defects. AA: Yolk is slightly defined. A: Yolk outline is more defined. B: Yolk outline is clearly defined. The White. Ideally, you want a thick white that won't let the yolk move around much. AA: Clear and thick.

A: Clear and reasonably thick. B: May contain blood spots and is thin and watery. While an egg's grade is a sign of quality, it's not necessarily a sign of safety.

For example, egg graders don't check for salmonella. Not all eggs come with a grade. But marketers can use the USDA shield to charge more for their eggs. Whether your eggs have a grade or not, they're still a delicious part of a balanced diet.