Eggs are a fridge staple, but figuring out when they’ve actually gone bad can feel like guessing in the dark. The date on the carton helps, sure, but if you’ve ever cracked one open a week past the sell-by date and wondered if it’s still safe to eat, you’re not alone. So, how long do eggs really last? And what’s the best way to store them so they stay fresh longer? Here’s everything you need to know.
Start With The Date On The Carton
Most egg cartons in the U.S. are stamped with either a sell-by, use-by, or expiration date, depending on the state and the brand. But here’s the thing: eggs often last far beyond those dates, especially when stored properly.
According to the USDA, eggs are typically good for three to five weeks after the date you brought them home, even if that’s a week or two past the printed date. That’s assuming you’ve been keeping them in the fridge, which is where they belong.
The Float Test: Fact Or Fiction?
You may have heard about the float test, which is where you place an egg in a glass of water to see if it sinks or floats. And yes, it’s actually a pretty reliable trick.
- If the egg sinks and rests flat on the bottom, it’s in its prime and good to use.
- If the egg sinks and stands on its end, it is still okay to use, but it is no longer very fresh.
- If it floats to the top, that is a clear sign it should be thrown out. When enough air gets inside the shell, it usually means the egg has started to spoil.
That said, always use your other senses too. A quick sniff after cracking an egg will tell you everything you need to know. If anything seems off, it is better to be safe and toss it.
Proper Storage Makes A Big Difference
How you store your eggs can impact how long they last. Here are a few tips to keep them fresh:
- Keep them in their original carton. The carton protects eggs from absorbing strong odors and keeps moisture in.
- Store them in the coldest part of the fridge, not the door. The door tends to fluctuate in temperature, which can speed up spoilage.
- Don’t wash eggs before storing. They have a natural coating that helps prevent bacteria from getting inside the shell.
If you’re not planning to use your eggs anytime soon, you can also freeze them. Just crack them into a bowl, whisk until blended, and transfer the mixture into an ice cube tray or a container that is safe for the freezer.
What About Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Once cooked, eggs have a much shorter shelf life. Hard-boiled eggs should be eaten within one week, whether they’re peeled or not. And be sure to store them in the fridge in a sealed container.
Can You Still Use Expired Eggs For Baking?
If your eggs are a little past their prime but still smell and look fine, they can still work for certain recipes. Older eggs actually whip better, making them ideal for meringues, soufflés, and even fluffy omelets. Just make sure they pass the float and sniff tests first.
Egg Safety and Bird Flu: What You Need to Know
Despite the ongoing bird flu (H5N1) outbreak affecting poultry farms, health officials confirm that eggs available in stores remain safe to eat. The risk of contracting bird flu from consuming eggs is extremely low, thanks to strict USDA inspection protocols and the rapid onset of illness in infected birds, which prevents contaminated eggs from reaching the market.
To ensure safety, it’s important to store eggs in the refrigerator and cook them thoroughly until both the yolk and white are firm. Pasteurized eggs offer an additional layer of protection, especially for recipes that require raw or undercooked eggs.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, while eggs don’t come with a built-in timer, proper storage and handling can help you determine their freshness. Keep them refrigerated, check for signs of spoilage, and when in doubt, do the float test. Whether you’re baking a cake or preparing breakfast for dinner, taking these precautions ensures you won’t crack into a bad egg.