How Eggs Are Formed

Ever wondered how an egg is formed? Below is the step-by-step answer for you!

The Yolk

The yolk forming starts in the hen’s ovary. When the right sized yolk is reached, it is released in to the oviduct, where the rest of the egg ill form.

The White

The next layer to be added is the egg white (albumen) – which takes about 3 hours to be formed. 

The Shell Membrane

The shell membrane is a very thin layer between the egg white and the egg shell, and almost looks like tissue paper. It takes about 1.25 hours to form.

The Shell

Finally the egg reaches the hen’s uterus (known as the shell gland), where the shell is added to the egg. The shell I also formed in layers over the 19 hour course, where pigment is added. Egg shells begin as white, where after blue and brown pigments are added during the shell forming process. The colour of the pigment depends on the breed of the chicken. 

The Bloom

This is the protective layer (or cuticle) covering the egg shell and are also the last layer added in egg formation. The Bloom is only added after the egg leave the uterus, right before it exits the hen’s vent. The Bloom ensures that bacteria are sealed out and maintain the moisture inside the egg. Leaving the bloom intact will help keep your eggs fresher for longer.