Viral ‘Egg Coffee’ Trend Raises Food Safety Concerns: What You Need to Realize

A frothy egg coffee topped with creamy egg yolk mixture, a popular Vietnamese beverage gaining traction on social media. (Image: TikTok/Ethan Rode)

Public health experts are warning about the risks associated with a viral coffee trend sweeping social media: egg coffee. The beverage, which combines strong coffee with a whipped mixture of raw egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk, has gained popularity on platforms like TikTok for its rich, creamy texture. Still, its preparation raises significant food safety concerns, particularly due to the use of uncooked eggs.

The Hidden Risks of Raw Eggs in Your Coffee

Egg coffee, known as cà phê trứng in Vietnam, traditionally involves whisking raw egg yolk with sweetened condensed milk until frothy, then layering it over strong brewed coffee. While the drink’s velvety texture and sweet flavor have made it a social media sensation, health authorities caution that the use of raw eggs poses a risk of Salmonella contamination—a leading cause of foodborne illness.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises that eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria. However, in egg coffee, the egg yolk mixture is typically only lightly warmed by the hot coffee beneath it, not fully cooked. “While the hot coffee may slightly heat the egg yolk cream, it doesn’t reach temperatures high enough to kill bacteria like Salmonella,” said Shannon O’Meara, a registered dietitian. “This leaves a risk of food poisoning, especially for vulnerable groups.”

Salmonella infection can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within hours to days of consumption. While most healthy adults recover without medical intervention, the illness can be severe—or even life-threatening—for young children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Adds Another Health Concern

Beyond the risk of bacterial contamination, egg coffee’s high sugar content is another reason for caution. A single serving typically includes a tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk, which contains roughly 60 calories and 10 grams of sugar per tablespoon. Overconsumption of sugary beverages has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

Best Vietnamese Egg Coffee Recipe | Quick & Easy Coffee Drink | Nguyen Coffee Supply

“Egg coffee should be treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily habit,” nutritionists advise. “The combination of raw eggs and added sugars makes it a beverage that’s best enjoyed sparingly.”

How to Enjoy Egg Coffee More Safely

For those eager to strive the trend without the risks, experts recommend a few precautions:

How to Enjoy Egg Coffee More Safely
Ethan Rode Easy Egg Coffee Recipe
  • Use pasteurized eggs: The FDA suggests opting for pasteurized eggs in recipes that call for raw or undercooked eggs, as they have been heat-treated to kill bacteria while maintaining their liquid form.
  • Limit sugar: Reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or substitute it with a lower-sugar alternative, such as unsweetened condensed milk or a small amount of honey.
  • Monitor portion sizes: Given its high calorie and sugar content, egg coffee is best consumed in moderation.

While egg coffee may be a delicious novelty, public health experts emphasize that food safety should never take a backseat to trends. As with any food or beverage containing raw ingredients, informed choices can help minimize risks while still allowing for the occasional treat.

The trend underscores a broader public health challenge: the rapid spread of food trends through social media often outpaces awareness of their potential risks. As viral recipes continue to emerge, health authorities urge consumers to prioritize safety—especially when raw or undercooked ingredients are involved.