What’s That White String in Your Egg? Should You Remove It?

What’s That White String in Your Egg? Should You Remove It?
If you’ve ever cracked open an egg and noticed a white, stringy structure attached to the yolk, you might have wondered what it is. This small strand is called the chalaza (plural: chalazae), and it plays a key role in the structure of the egg. Let’s dive into what it is, whether it’s safe to eat, and if you need to remove it.

What Is the Chalaza?
The chalaza is a natural part of an egg’s anatomy. It’s essentially a pair of spiral bands that anchor the yolk to the egg white (albumen). Its primary function is to keep the yolk suspended in the center, providing stability and protecting it from being damaged.

You’ll typically find two chalazae in every egg, though sometimes only one is visible.

Is It Safe to Eat?
Yes, the chalaza is completely safe to eat! It’s made of the same protein found in the rest of the egg. When cooked, it blends seamlessly into the egg white. It doesn’t alter the taste or texture of your dish.

Should You Remove It?