Cuticle /Cuticula (or bloom): Thin protective coating sealing pores of the shell.White (albumen): Must have a high percentage of thick albumen to be top quality. The quality is affected by the presence of disease and improper care after production.

Yolk: Pigmentation of the yolk affects the acceptability of the egg. Rations determine the color of the yolks. Off-flavors may be due to contaminants in the feed. Off–flavors can also be caused by storing eggs near products with strong odors.