I Cracked an Egg and There Was Blood Around the Yolk: What It Means
Cracking open an egg should be simple—but when you see blood around the yolk, it instantly raises red flags. Is it safe? Is it spoiled? Was it fertilized?
If you cracked an egg and found blood around the yolk, you’re not alone—and in most cases, it’s not harmful.
This guide explains what causes blood around the yolk, whether it’s safe to eat, how to tell when it’s not, and what you can do to prevent it—especially if you’re raising your own backyard chickens.
What Does It Mean When There’s Blood Around the Yolk?
Blood around the yolk typically comes from a tiny blood vessel that ruptured in the hen’s reproductive tract during ovulation.
Here’s how it works:
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When a hen releases an egg yolk from her ovary, small capillaries can sometimes burst or tear, leading to a blood spot.
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If the rupture is slightly larger, you might see more extensive blood pooling around the yolk, giving the appearance of it being “surrounded” by blood.
This is not a sign of spoilage, nor does it mean the egg was fertilized.
It’s a natural, harmless occurrence in most cases and happens more often than people realize.
Is It Safe to Eat an Egg with Blood Around the Yolk?
Yes, eggs with blood around the yolk are usually safe to eat—if the egg is fresh and smells normal.
Here’s when it’s okay:
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The blood is limited to a small smear or spot
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The egg does not smell rotten or sulfuric
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There are no green, pink, or cloudy discolorations
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The egg was refrigerated properly
You can simply remove the blood with a clean spoon if it bothers you before cooking.
However, discard the egg if:
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There’s a strong odor
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The blood is extensive and the egg looks cloudy, discolored, or unusually thick
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You’re uncertain about the freshness or cleanliness of the egg
When in doubt, throw it out.
Why Does Blood Around the Yolk Happen?
Several natural and environmental factors can cause this:
1. Young Hens Just Starting to Lay
Pullets (hens under 1 year old) often have irregular or fragile reproductive systems, making them more likely to lay eggs with blood spots or visible blood vessels.
2. Vitamin Deficiency
A lack of Vitamin A or K can weaken blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of rupture during egg formation.
3. Stress or Trauma
Sudden loud noises, predator threats, or flock bullying can stress hens out—and that stress can lead to disrupted or irregular laying.
4. Genetics
Some hens are simply more prone to blood spots than others, depending on their breed and family line.
5. Overcrowding or Aggressive Roosters
Physical trauma from cramped spaces or aggressive mating can lead to more internal injuries during ovulation.
Pro Tip: Want to reduce stress and injury in your flock? Use this chicken coop calculator to ensure your birds have enough space per hen. It helps prevent stress-related egg imperfections like blood spotting.
What’s the Difference Between Blood Spots and Fertilized Eggs?
It’s a common myth that blood in an egg means it’s fertilized—but that’s not true.
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A fertilized egg shows a small white bullseye (called a blastoderm) on the yolk.
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Blood around the yolk comes from ruptured vessels, not fertilization.
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Fertilized eggs will not develop into chicks unless incubated at ~99°F for over 24 hours.
So unless you’re keeping a rooster, fertilization isn’t possible—and blood in your egg is purely natural.
Backyard Chickens: Why You Might See Blood More Often
If you’re raising your own hens, you’ll likely see blood spots and streaks more frequently than if you’re buying eggs from the store.
That’s because:
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Commercial eggs go through candling, where they’re lit and inspected for visible defects—including blood.
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Bloody eggs are typically removed before packaging.
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Backyard eggs are unfiltered—so you’re seeing eggs in their natural state.
To reduce these occurrences in your own flock:
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Provide a balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals
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Minimize flock stress with proper shelter, spacing, and predator protection
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Use the chicken coop calculator to make sure your birds aren’t overcrowded or competing for resources
Can You Eat the Egg if You Remove the Blood?
Yes. If the egg is fresh, and the blood is minor, you can remove it and eat the rest.
Here’s how:
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Use a clean spoon or knife tip to gently scoop out the blood spot.
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Cook the egg thoroughly—this neutralizes any potential bacteria.
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If you’re squeamish, use the egg in baked goods instead of sunny-side up.
Cooking the egg will change its color and consistency anyway—so most people won’t even notice the difference.
When Should You Discard an Egg?
While most bloody eggs are safe, here’s when to play it safe:
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The egg smells foul or has a strong sulfur-like odor
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The blood appears clotted, stringy, or widespread
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The egg white is green, pink, or unusually cloudy
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The egg was stored in warm conditions for more than a day
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You’re unsure and don’t feel comfortable eating it
Better safe than sorry is always the right call with food safety.
Conclusion: Blood Around the Yolk Is Normal—and Often Safe
Finding blood in your egg might be surprising, but in most cases, it’s completely natural and harmless. It doesn’t mean the egg is fertilized, bad, or unsafe. As long as it smells fine and looks otherwise normal, you can remove the blood and eat it without worry.
Still uncomfortable? No problem—discard it and move on.
To reduce the odds of seeing blood spots in your flock’s eggs, make sure your hens have the space and care they need. Use the chicken coop calculator to calculate how much coop space your chickens need, prevent stress, and improve egg quality.
Now you know: a little blood doesn’t spoil the egg—it’s just part of nature’s process.
