What is the process called that is used to check eggs for cracks and defects?

Candling is the process used to check eggs for cracks and defects. This technique involves holding an egg up to a bright light source in a darkened room, which allows the inspector to see inside the egg. This method not only reveals any physical imperfections such as cracks or leaks but also provides insight into the contents of the egg, including the quality of the yolk and the presence of any fertilization or development issues.

The primary purpose of candling is to ensure that only high-quality eggs are packaged and sold to consumers. By identifying defective eggs, producers can maintain high standards and prevent any subpar products from reaching the market. This procedure is an essential step in the quality control process for egg production.

Other options, while related to egg handling and quality assessment, serve different purposes and do not involve the direct examination of the egg’s integrity in the same way candling does. Grading, for example, involves categorizing eggs based on their quality and size after they have been assessed, but does not specifically focus on detecting physical defects.