TikTok’s Viral Frozen Egg Trend Just Drew Serious Warnings From the FDA and USDA

A viral egg trend on TikTok that shows users freezing whole eggs in their shells, slicing them and frying them into small “mini eggs” has caught the attention of federal food safety agencies. The FDA and USDA are now warning that the hack can be dangerous and should not be attempted at home.

The method has resurfaced on the platform after gaining millions of views in earlier waves. The visual appeal is straightforward: a frozen egg sliced and pan-fried into a miniature creation. But behind the aesthetic is a food safety concern that both federal agencies say is serious enough to flag publicly. If you stay on top of trending kitchen hacks, this is one to evaluate carefully before trying. Here is what the agencies say, how the risks break down and what to do instead.

Why Freezing Eggs In Their Shells Is a Problem

The FDA and USDA caution against freezing eggs in their shells for a straightforward reason. Liquids expand when frozen, which can cause eggshells to crack. Even when cracks are not visible, they can compromise the egg’s protective barrier and allow bacteria to enter.