Egg coffee, known for its rich, creamy flavor, is a unique blend of coffee, egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. While it offers a distinctive taste, it also presents both health benefits and considerations.

Black coffee, a base for this drink, contains beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols. Studies link these compounds to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers. When egg yolks are added, the beverage further provides protein along with nutrients like choline, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

However, the protein content in egg coffee is not substantial; one egg yolk offers only about 3 g of protein. Therefore, egg coffee should not be considered a primary protein source for breakfast. Instead, individuals should incorporate other protein-rich foods, such as low-fat yogurt, fresh cheese, egg whites, or nuts.

Egg coffee has a rich, creamy flavor. Photo: Le Lien

The less healthy aspects of egg coffee stem from its sugar and condensed milk content. One tablespoon of sugar contains about 12 g of added sugar, nearly half of the maximum daily recommended amount for women by the American Heart Association (AHA) and about 1/3 for men. Additionally, one tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk provides about 62 kcal and 10 g of sugar.

Healthline notes that egg yolks and condensed milk also increase the drink's saturated fat content. Regular consumption, especially if one's diet already includes many foods rich in saturated fat, can elevate low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol over time, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. For those making egg coffee at home, reducing the amount of sugar and substituting condensed milk with low-sugar or plant-based milk can help lower sugar and saturated fat levels.

A significant concern with egg coffee is the potential risk of Salmonella infection. Many recipes use raw or lightly warmed egg yolks, which can increase the presence of Salmonella bacteria. While some believe hot coffee can cook the eggs, experts indicate that coffee's temperature is typically insufficient to eliminate these bacteria.

Salmonella infection can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, appearing within hours to days after consuming contaminated food. Most healthy individuals recover on their own, but older adults, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems face a higher risk of severe complications. Therefore, experts advise these groups to avoid dishes containing raw or undercooked eggs, including egg coffee.

To safely enjoy egg coffee, it is advisable to use pasteurized eggs and reduce the amount of sugar or condensed milk during preparation. Overall, egg coffee can be an appealing beverage when made correctly, but it should be considered an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.

Bao Bao (Compiled)