That carton of eggs has been sitting in the fridge for a while. You check the expiration date, and you’re a few days past. Are they still OK to eat? It’s the stuff of common domestic disagreements, frantic internet searches and self-doubt. How long do eggs really last, anyway?
According to the USDA, it’s longer than you think.
Expiration dates are often just recommendations. For some ingredients, however, (say, animal proteins like beef, chicken and pork), it’s best to consume them on the sooner side. But eggs give you some grace time. In the shell, they can last three to five weeks from the day they come home, and that may even outlast the date on the carton.
How should I store my eggs?
Put them in the fridge as soon as you get home. Make sure that your fridge temperature is set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder, and that you don’t keep your eggs in the door, which tends to be warmer than the shelves. Don’t keep eggs at room temperature for more than two hours.
How can I tell if an egg is old?
You may have heard the age-old trick. Put your egg in water. If it sinks, it’s fresh. If it floats, it’s not. The pack date is most likely a more reliable indicator. That said, old eggs aren’t necessarily bad. They can be used in baking, where their diminished quality — think thinner whites and flatter yolks — makes less of a difference. But let common sense be your guide: If it smells rotten or looks funny (a watery white, a discolored yolk, a powdery or slimy shell), throw it out. The same goes for any cracked eggs. There’s no sense in letting a bad egg spoil your week.
EDITOR’S TAKE:
We aim to help improve your life and health. This bit of practical advice can save you from consuming bad eggs that could lead to serious illness. Believe me, my personal experience with bad eggs was a near death situation. Our aim is to support egg producers and simultaneously keep you safe. Follow the simple ideas in this article and save yourself from the painful agony that comes from bad eggs. Practical advice for healthier living. You’re welcome! Another piece of practical advice – take a look at the new addition to the Certified Ag Group lineup of products – CADProtect. A warranty program designed specifically for farm/ranch trucks. Your customers will thank you!
