There are a few reasons why Costa Rica (and some other countries) may not refrigerate eggs like they do in many other parts of the world:
- Egg production and distribution: In some countries, eggs are often produced and distributed on a smaller scale than in industrialized nations. This means that the eggs are often fresher and have not been washed or treated with chemicals, which can remove the natural protective coating on the eggshell. The protective coating helps to keep bacteria from entering the egg, which means that it doesn’t necessarily need to be refrigerated.
- Climate: Costa Rica has a warm and humid climate, which can accelerate the breakdown of eggs if they are refrigerated. In such climates, it may be better to store eggs at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
- Food safety regulations: Different countries may have different regulations around egg storage and handling. In some countries, eggs are required to be refrigerated by law, while in others, it is not necessary.
However, it’s worth noting that even in Costa Rica, some people do choose to refrigerate their eggs for personal preference or due to health concerns. It’s important to handle and store eggs properly to minimize the risk of foodborne illness, regardless of whether they are refrigerated or not.