American Visitor Stunned by UK Supermarket Differences: 'Why Are Eggs Not Refrigerated?'
American stunned by UK supermarket differences

An American visitor to the UK has gone viral after sharing their genuine confusion about British supermarket customs – particularly why eggs aren't kept in refrigerators.

The Great Egg Debate

The tourist, who documented their experience in a Tesco store, couldn't understand why British eggs are displayed on regular shelves rather than in chilled sections like in US supermarkets. "This would never fly back home," they remarked in their social media post that's since sparked thousands of comments.

Other Supermarket Surprises

The cultural differences didn't stop at egg storage:

  • Milk in bags? The visitor was equally perplexed by some UK stores selling milk in plastic bags rather than cartons
  • Checkout etiquette: They noted how British shoppers pack their groceries much faster than Americans
  • Ready meal variety: The extensive selection of pre-prepared meals surprised the US visitor

The Science Behind the Egg Storage

Food safety experts explain the difference comes down to processing methods. In the UK, eggs aren't washed, preserving their natural protective coating that keeps them fresh at room temperature. American eggs undergo washing that removes this layer, requiring refrigeration.

The viral post has become a lighthearted discussion about transatlantic cultural differences, with many Brits equally baffled by American grocery habits when visiting the States.