Candler: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from 'candle', due to using light to examine the contents of an egg, similar to how a candle provides light.
• Old English used 'candel' and 'candler' referred to someone who used candles in various tasks.

History

• The practice of candling eggs began in the late 19th century as a method to assess quality and freshness.
• Before modern refrigeration, this technique was vital for ensuring eggs remained safe for consumption.

Science

• Candling involves shining a bright light through an egg to observe its contents and determine freshness.
• The process can reveal the presence of cracks or blood spots, assisting in quality control.

Agriculture

• Egg candling is used by poultry farmers to enhance product quality before selling eggs.
• This practice helps to maintain food safety standards and reduce waste by identifying defective eggs early on.

Cultural Impact

• In various cultures, the freshness of eggs has been an important aspect of culinary traditions, influencing recipes and cooking methods.
• Egg candling is often highlighted in farm visits, teaching children about food quality and safety.