When you crack open an egg, you may notice a thin, white, string-like strand attached to the yolk. At first, it can look unusual—or even a little concerning. Many people assume it means the egg is spoiled or defective and remove it before cooking.
In reality, this strand is completely normal and harmless. In fact, its presence often indicates that the egg is fresh and has been properly stored.
This white strand is called the chalaza. It’s a natural protein structure whose job is to keep the yolk centered within the egg white. Acting like a stabilizer, the chalaza helps prevent the yolk from bumping into the shell as the egg moves.
Most eggs contain two chalazae—one on each side of the yolk—though you may only notice one when the egg is cracked open.
The chalaza can also give clues about freshness. In fresher eggs, it appears thicker and more defined. As the egg ages, it becomes thinner and less noticeable. So if you see a firm, rope-like strand, that’s usually a good sign.
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