Keeping backyard chickens has become a popular hobby for many Australians, providing not only a sustainable source of eggs but also companionship and joy. As chicken owners, we often seek methods to preserve the freshness of our eggs, especially during the peak laying season. One effective technique is called water glassing, which can keep your eggs usable for months. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what water glassing is, how to do it properly, and resources for sourcing the lime essential for this preservation method in Australia.

What is Water Glassing?

Water glassing is a method of preserving fresh eggs by submerging them in a solution of water and sodium silicate—a glass-like compound that creates an environment preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. This technique was widely used during the Great Depression for preserving eggs when refrigeration was not an option. Water glassing is ideal for maintaining the quality of fresh eggs for many months (up to a year or longer), making it especially useful for anyone with a hen’s bounty.

Benefits of Water Glassing Eggs

1. Longer Shelf Life: When done correctly, water glassing can extend the life of eggs significantly longer than standard refrigeration.
2. Nutritional Retention: Eggs that are preserved using this method maintain their nutritional value better than those that are hard-boiled or frozen.
3. Cost-Effective: This process allows chicken keepers to save money by preventing food waste, especially during seasons when their hens are laying prolifically.

Materials Needed for Water Glassing

To successfully water glass your eggs, you will need the following materials:

1. Fresh Eggs: Ideally, use newly laid eggs (less than a week old), and make sure they are clean and free of cracks.

2. Sodium Silicate or Hydrated Lime: These are the key ingredients for the preservation process. You can find sodium silicate in liquid form, which is non-toxic and effective. You can find hydrated lime in powder form, but be sure to get food grade.
3. Water: Use clean, preferably distilled water, to mix with the sodium silicate.
4. Container: A food-grade, airtight container (like a glass jar or a plastic bucket) that is large enough to hold the eggs and the solution.
5. Scale or Measuring Tools: For precise measurement of the sodium silicate to water ratio.

Step-by-Step Process for Water Glassing Eggs

Step 1: Prepare the Solution

1. Measure the Sodium Silicate/Lime: A common ratio for water glassing is 1 part sodium silicate to 10 parts water. For example, if you use 1 cup of sodium silicate, mix it with 10 cups of water. For lime, you should use 30g lime to 1 litre of water.
2. Mix the Solution: In a large container, mix the sodium silicate/lime with the water until completely dissolved.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

1. Choose Fresh Eggs: Select eggs that are clean and intact. Avoid any eggs with cracks or blemishes as they are more susceptible to spoilage.
2. Sort the Eggs: It’s best to use eggs that are the same size and age for consistency in preservation.

Step 3: Submerge the Eggs

1. Layer the Eggs: Place the eggs into your container carefully, either standing up or laying down, but I find I get the best results by laying the eggs pointy end down.
2. Pour the Solution: Once all the eggs are in the container, pour the solution over the eggs, ensuring that they are completely covered.
3. Seal the Container: Close the container tightly to prevent air from entering, which can compromise the preservation process.

Step 4: Store the Eggs

1. Choose a Storage Location: Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar, with stable temperatures. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or areas that experience temperature fluctuations.
2. Monitor the Eggs: Check the eggs periodically to ensure they remain submerged in the solution and inspect for any signs of spoilage.

How to Use Water-Glassed Eggs

When you need to use an egg from your water glassing stash:

1. Rinse the Egg: Rinse the egg gently under cool water to remove any solution residue before cracking.
2. Crack and Use: Use the egg as you would fresh eggs in your cooking or baking.
3. Use Within a Reasonable Time: Once removed from the preservation solution, use the egg within a week for the best quality.

Common Myths about Water Glassing Eggs

1. “You Can Use Any Egg”: While it’s true that some preservation methods can use eggs of varying freshness, for water glassing, you should aim for the freshest eggs possible to ensure the best preservation results.
2. “Water Glassing is Unsafe”: Sodium silicate and lime are both safe food preservatives, used correctly. It’s essential to use food-grade products and follow the instructions to avoid any health risks.

Where to Buy Sodium Silicate or Lime in Australia

Sodium silicate is accessible via various online and physical retailers in Australia. Here are some trustworthy sources to purchase this essential ingredient:

1. Big W: Food grade pickling lime – Check out their offerings here.
2. eBay Australia: Many sellers provide sodium silicate in varying sizes. Search for “sodium silicate” on eBay to find suitable options.
3. Amazon Australia: You can also find sodium silicate in various forms on Amazon. Here’s a link to browse products available in Australia: Amazon Australia

Final Thoughts

Water glassing is a practical and effective method for preserving fresh eggs from your backyard chickens. With just a few materials and the right technique, you can enjoy your homegrown eggs for months on end, reducing waste and maximizing your chicken-keeping experience.

Whether you’re in the heart of the city or on a rural property, this old-fashioned preservation technique can be a game changer. Not only can you ensure that you and your family benefit from the nutritious bounty of your hens, but you can also take pride in your sustainable food practices. Happy water glassing!