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EGGNOG FACTS

HISTORY

The history of eggnog is an interesting one filled with many speculations as to its origin. Eggnog is a distant offspring to various milk and wine punches, dating back to the "Old World." Once it arrived in America, the wine was soon replaced with rum.

The early colonists referred to rum as "grog." From this, one can see how "eggnog" could have been a shortened term for "egg and grog."

Then there is another version

Some believe that the term "nog" comes from the word "noggin", which is a small, wooden carved mug in which drinks were served at tables in taverns. Therefore, an "egg" drink served in a "noggin", could have been later called "eggnog."

Of course there are those who like to take both of these stories and mesh them into another tale: "Egg and Grog in a Noggin". It's quite easy to see why a shorter name was needed for this rich and often spicy drink.

Eggnog is a holiday tradition no matter what its history may be. It's hard to imagine Christmas or New Year's without a cup of eggnog to lend merriment and joy.SAFETY

The latest estimates indicate that there is a 1 in 10,000 chance that the eggs in your eggnog might contain harmful bacteria.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest recommends that in order to avoid the possibility of food poisoning, you should slowly heat the eggs to 160-degrees F before using them.

Dairies usually pasteurize eggnog, which means that harmful bacteria have already been eliminated through a heating process. Dairy eggnog is most often sold "sans alcohol."

Purchased, or store-bought, eggnog is generally considered very safe as well as delicious. Buy it "ready-made" with confidence and add your own finishing touches. Just sprinkle a little nutmeg on your frothy brew for a smooth and fulfilling refreshment.