How Long Can Eggs Stay Good in the Fridge?
I remember when I was a kid, my mom would always tell me to eat our eggs quickly before they go bad. She said that eggs only last for a few days in the fridge, and after that, they’re not safe to eat. I always wondered why eggs had such a short shelf life, but I never really thought about it too much.
Now that I’m an adult, I’ve learned a lot more about food safety, and I know that eggs can actually last quite a while in the fridge. In fact, according to the USDA, eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 45 days.
How to Tell If Eggs Are Bad
Just because eggs can last for up to 45 days in the fridge doesn’t mean that they’re always safe to eat. There are a few things you can do to tell if your eggs have gone bad:
- Check the expiration date. The expiration date on an egg carton is not a guarantee that the eggs are safe to eat, but it’s a good place to start. If the expiration date has passed, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw the eggs away.
- Float test. Fill a glass of water and gently place the egg inside. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat on its side, it’s fresh. If the egg stands upright in the bottom of the glass, it’s still good, but it’s getting old. If the egg floats, it’s bad and should be discarded.
- Smell test. Crack the egg into a bowl and smell it. If the egg smells sour or sulfurous, it’s bad. Fresh eggs should have no odor.
- Visual inspection. Look at the egg carefully. If the shell is cracked or damaged, the egg may be contaminated with bacteria and should be discarded. Also, look for any discoloration or mold on the shell or inside the egg. If you see any signs of spoilage, throw the egg away.
Tips for Keeping Eggs Fresh
There are a few things you can do to help keep your eggs fresh and extend their shelf life:
- Store eggs in the refrigerator. Eggs should always be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Do not store eggs in the door of the refrigerator, as this is the warmest part of the fridge.
- Keep eggs in their carton. The carton helps to protect the eggs from damage and contamination.
- Do not wash eggs before storing them. Washing eggs can remove the protective layer on the shell, making them more susceptible to bacteria.
- Use eggs within 45 days of purchase. Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 45 days, but it’s best to use them within 2-3 weeks for the best quality.
FAQs About Eggs
Q: How long can eggs stay good in the fridge?
A: Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 45 days.
Q: How can I tell if an egg is bad?
A: You can tell if an egg is bad by checking the expiration date, performing a float test, smelling it, and visually inspecting it.
Q: What are some tips for keeping eggs fresh?
A: Some tips for keeping eggs fresh include storing them in the refrigerator, keeping them in their carton, not washing them before storing them, and using them within 45 days of purchase.
Conclusion
Eggs are a nutritious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. By following the tips above, you can help keep your eggs fresh and safe to eat.
Are you interested in learning more about eggs and other food safety topics? Be sure to check out our other blog posts on food safety and nutrition.
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Do you need to refrigerate eggs? | Do you need, Eggs, Refrigerate eggs Jul 18, 2022Summary. Fresh eggs in their shells will last up to 5 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Egg in other forms and types of storage may last a longer or shorter time. No form of egg should stay
