When you crack an egg, you may see a thin white string attached to the yolk. It can look strange, and some people think it means the egg is bad. But actually, it’s completely normal—and it’s often a sign the egg is fresh.
It’s Called the Chalaza
That white string is called the chalaza. It’s a natural part of the egg made of protein. Its job is to keep the yolk in the center of the egg.
You can think of it like a small support that holds the yolk in place and protects it from hitting the shell. Most eggs have two of them, but sometimes you only notice one.
What It Says About Freshness
The chalaza can tell you if an egg is fresh.
- In fresh eggs, it looks thick and firm.
- In older eggs, it becomes thinner and harder to see.
So if you see a strong white strand, that usually means the egg is fresh.
Is It Safe to Eat?
Yes, it’s completely safe. The chalaza is made of the same protein as egg whites. When you cook the egg—whether frying, scrambling, or baking—it blends in and disappears.
You only need to remove it if you want a very smooth texture for dishes like custard or pudding. Otherwise, it won’t change the taste or quality.
The Bottom Line
That white string is not a defect. It’s a natural part of the egg that helps protect the yolk. Seeing it is actually a good sign that your egg is fresh and safe to eat.