Pregnant Women Can Eat Runny Eggs, Study Says

People yearning to eat runny egg can now enjoy it after scientists confirmed that the eggs produced in the U.K. are safe to eat. However, experts said consumers should only opt for the products that carry the British Lion stamp.

Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) said in its report that after a thorough investigation they found out that eggs produced under the British Lion code are safe to eat. People can enjoy it even if it is raw or lightly cooked. Likewise, to pregnant women and those people vulnerable to infection.

The group's advisory came after they found out that there has been a "major reduction in the microbiological risk from Salmonella in U.K. shell eggs from hens since 2001." They said the findings mean that the eggs carrying the Lion Code can be served raw or lightly cooked to all people in society, including care homes, hospitals and those who are vulnerable to infection.

Experts believe the newly improve standards of the egg industry are the major contributing factor why there has been a clear reduction of salmonella risk. They said since 1998, the Lion Code has been practicing good hygiene, updated vaccination against salmonella and proper production and packaging process.

However, the group is reminding the consumers not to eat runny eggs from restaurants or cafes as they can't guarantee that the eggs will have the kitemark. They are also reminding every household to properly store eggs to prevent cross-contamination.

Food Standards Agency (FSA) said they already acknowledged the major reduction of the cases of salmonella from eggs in the U.K. Nevertheless, the agency said to WebMD, they are still conducting a 12- week consultation on whether to amend the advice.

The British government first issued warning about eating raw eggs following a salmonella scare in 1989 -- the poisoning was linked to uncooked eggs.