Here's How Eggs Pack a Nutrient-Dense Punch and How to Tell If They've Gone Bad
Eggs are renowned for their high nutrient content, including essential macros and micros like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. In the US, the average person consumed 277 eggs in 2022, with this number expected to increase to 288 eggs per capita in 2023, as reported by Statista.
However, recent avian flu outbreaks have caused egg shortages, coupled with inflation and rising food costs, making this fragile food a more valuable commodity. To get the most out of your investment, it's essential to know how long eggs stay fresh and how to tell if they've gone bad to avoid waste.
Keep reading to discover the secrets of egg freshness and how to tell if your eggs are past their prime.
What is the Shelf Life of Eggs?
According to the USDA, refrigerated raw eggs in their uncracked shells can last for three to five weeks at 40°F or slightly below. However, the countdown to their freshness starts even before they are distributed to grocery stores.
When purchasing eggs, it's important to check the three imprints on the carton, including the pack-by date, best-by date, and sell-by or expiration (EXP) date. The pack-by date signifies the day the eggs were packed in their carton, usually a three-digit number between 001-365, with each trio of digits corresponding to a day in the year.
The best-by date denotes how long the eggs are expected to maintain their Grade A quality, which is around 28-35 days after being packaged. While eating eggs beyond the best-by date might be safe, it can negatively impact their taste. The EXP date indicates the last day the eggs are considered good.
It's essential to note that these dates serve as indicators of freshness, and the grading for quality is voluntary. Additionally, not all states require the use of sell-by or EXP dates, making it crucial to rely on your senses and some helpful hacks to determine if the eggs are still safe to eat.
By using simple strategies and relying on your senses, you can ensure that your eggs are fresh and safe to eat, extending their shelf life.
How to Tell If Your Eggs Have Gone Bad
Before buying a carton of eggs, inspect them for any cracks on the external surface. Even a tiny fracture makes the carton unsalvageable, and it's best not to take it home. If the eggshells have a slimy or powdery surface, it's another sign of a bad batch.
To test an egg's freshness, try the buoyancy test. Place a raw egg in a bowl of cold tap water, and if it floats, it's an old egg. While this doesn't necessarily mean it's unsafe to eat, it's a sign that the egg has lost its freshness.
One of the most apparent indicators of whether or not your eggs have gone bad is their smell. Rotten eggs emit a pungent sulfuric odor, whether they are raw or cooked. If your eggs smell strange, and it's beyond the EXP date, it's time to dispose of them.
By examining the eggshells, testing their buoyancy, and using your sense of smell, you can determine if your eggs are still good or if they've gone bad.
Effective Strategies to Maintain the Freshness of Your Eggs
To keep your eggs fresh, follow these recommendations:
Once you've purchased your eggs, refrigerate them immediately upon arriving home. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than two hours.
Refrain from storing your eggs in the fridge door, as this area is susceptible to temperature fluctuations and can cause the eggs to crack. Additionally, the door compartment typically runs slightly warmer than the rest of the fridge, leading to quicker aging and poor quality.
Keep your eggs in their original carton, as it minimizes water loss and prevents absorption of unwanted food flavors in the fridge, which can compromise their taste quality.
For the freshest eggs, place them in the coldest section of your fridge, typically towards the back near the thermostat. The ideal temperature for maintaining freshness is 40°F or lower.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your eggs stay fresh for as long as possible, preserving their quality and taste.