Ungraded Eggs Food Safety

The Poultry Products Regulation allows for the sale of ungraded eggs at public markets (e.g., farmer’s markets). This allows local consumers to connect with and support farmers in their local communities.

What are Ungraded Eggs?

Ungraded eggs come from small farms or backyard flocks and have not been inspected at a government-licensed facility.

Eggs can be a source of Salmonella infections. Salmonella is a microorganism that may be transferred from chickens to the eggs during laying. To reduce the risk of food borne illness, ungraded eggs must be handled and stored properly. 

Farmer Information

For information about ensuring the safety of your ungraded eggs, including where you can sell them, as well as packaging and labelling requirements, download the Ungraded Eggs: From Farm to Table – Information for Farmers factsheet (PDF 605 KB).

Consumer Information

Consumers play an important role in preventing foodborne illnesses. For information on how to safely choose, handle and prepare ungraded eggs, download the Ungraded Eggs: From Farm to Table – Consumer Information factsheet (PDF 111 KB).

To Learn More

For more information, email the Food Safety and Inspection Branch.