Eggs are a staple in many households worldwide, appreciated for their versatility and nutritional value. However, knowing when eggs expire is crucial to ensure food safety and avoid the risk of consuming spoiled eggs. Many people are uncertain about how long eggs remain fresh after purchase and how to recognize if an egg is still safe to eat. Proper storage, understanding expiration dates, and simple testing methods can help extend the shelf life of eggs and reduce food waste.
Understanding Egg Expiration Dates
Sell-By, Use-By, and Expiration Dates
Egg cartons often display various dates, such as ‘sell-by,’ ‘use-by,’ or ‘expiration’ dates, which can cause confusion. These dates indicate different things:
- Sell-By Date: The date by which stores should sell the eggs. This helps stores manage inventory but doesn’t mean the eggs are unsafe immediately after this date.
- Use-By Date: The date recommended for peak freshness. Eggs are usually still good for some time after this date if properly stored.
- Expiration Date: The date after which eggs should not be consumed due to safety concerns. This date is more conservative and depends on storage conditions.
In many countries, eggs sold commercially have a recommended consumption window of about 3 to 5 weeks from the date they were packed. After this period, their quality declines, and the risk of bacterial contamination increases.
Julian Date on Egg Cartons
Some egg cartons include a Julian date, a three-digit number indicating the day of the year the eggs were packed. For example, 001 corresponds to January 1st, and 365 corresponds to December 31st. This can help track how fresh the eggs are independent of expiration dates.
How Long Do Eggs Last?
Refrigerated Eggs
When stored properly in a refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C), eggs can last significantly longer than many people realize. Typically, eggs stay fresh for about 3 to 5 weeks after the pack date or about 3 weeks after purchase.
- Eggs stored in their original carton on a shelf inside the fridge maintain freshness better than eggs stored on the refrigerator door.
- The carton helps protect eggs from absorbing strong odors and flavors from other foods.
Room Temperature Storage
In some countries, eggs are sold unrefrigerated and can be kept at room temperature for a short time. However, unrefrigerated eggs spoil much faster usually within a week or two because the protective coating on the shell may be removed during washing. Once refrigerated, eggs should remain cold to maintain safety.
Signs Eggs Are Expired or Spoiled
Visual and Sensory Cues
Even if eggs are within the expiration date, it’s essential to check their condition before use. Spoiled eggs often show signs such as:
- Discoloration: Any unusual spots, greenish or pinkish tint inside the egg, or powdery mold on the shell.
- Unpleasant odor: A strong, sulfur-like smell when the shell is cracked, indicating bacterial growth.
- Texture changes: Slimy or unusually runny whites can suggest spoilage.
Float Test
A simple and popular method to test egg freshness is the float test. Here’s how it works:
- Fill a bowl with cold water.
- Gently place the egg in the water.
- If the egg sinks and lays flat on its side, it is very fresh.
- If the egg stands upright or tilts, it is still safe but should be used soon.
- If the egg floats, it has likely spoiled and should be discarded.
This test works because eggshells are porous, allowing air to seep in over time. More air causes the egg to become buoyant.
Proper Egg Storage Tips to Extend Shelf Life
Keep Eggs Refrigerated
Storing eggs in the coldest part of the refrigerator, rather than the door, helps maintain a steady temperature and prolongs freshness. Avoid washing eggs before refrigeration as this removes the natural protective coating.
Store Eggs in Their Carton
The original carton shields eggs from light, odors, and moisture loss. It also keeps them upright, preserving the yolk’s central position.
Handle Eggs with Care
Cracks in the eggshell allow bacteria to enter and speed up spoilage. Use cracked eggs quickly or discard them to avoid foodborne illness.
Food Safety Concerns with Expired Eggs
Consuming expired or spoiled eggs increases the risk of foodborne illnesses such as salmonella. Symptoms of salmonella infection include stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Vulnerable populations, including young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, should be especially cautious about egg freshness.
Cooking eggs thoroughly reduces the risk of illness, but it’s always safer to use fresh eggs to minimize potential problems.
How to Use Eggs Past Their Expiration Date
Eggs that are slightly past their expiration or best by date may still be usable if they pass the float test and show no signs of spoilage. You can use such eggs in baked goods, where thorough cooking eliminates bacteria, but avoid consuming them raw or undercooked.
Hard boiling older eggs also helps extend their usability. Peeled hard-boiled eggs should be consumed within a week for best safety.
Summary
Knowing when eggs expire depends on factors like storage conditions, packaging dates, and how you handle them. Typically, refrigerated eggs stay fresh for 3 to 5 weeks after packing. Using visual checks, the float test, and smell can help determine if eggs are still safe to eat beyond printed dates. Proper refrigeration and storage in the original carton maximize freshness and food safety. Being aware of these factors prevents food waste and protects your health by avoiding spoiled eggs.