Microbial spoilage of ostrich (Struthio camelus) eggs

1. The incidence of microbial spoilage was investigated in three batches of ostrich eggs, one from Africa and two from Europe. 2. 18% to 21% of eggs in each batch were contaminated with bacteria and fungi, with the latter being found more often in eggs which contained more advanced embryos. 3. Although infertility and prolonged storage reduced hatchability, the high incidence of microbial contamination in ostrich eggs is deemed to be a significant problem. 4. Improving nest hygiene is considered to be the simplest way to reduce microbial spoilage.