How Long Do Fresh Eggs Keep?
Eggs are a staple in many households, providing a versatile and nutritious ingredient for a variety of dishes. However, one common question that often arises is: how long do fresh eggs keep? Understanding the shelf life of eggs is crucial for maintaining food safety and ensuring that you’re consuming them at their best quality.
Fresh eggs can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about three to five weeks. This duration can vary depending on several factors, including the temperature of the refrigerator, the quality of the eggs, and how they are stored. To maximize the shelf life of fresh eggs, it is essential to keep them in their original carton and place them in the coldest part of the fridge, away from the door where temperature fluctuations can occur.
It is important to note that the “best by” date on the egg carton is not an expiration date but rather a recommended consumption date. Eggs can still be safe to eat beyond this date, but their quality may start to decline. To determine if an egg is still good to eat, you can perform a simple float test. Place the egg in a bowl of cold water. If it sinks to the bottom and lies flat on its side, it is still fresh. If it stands upright, it is very fresh. However, if it floats to the top, it has gone bad and should not be consumed.
In addition to refrigeration, proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of fresh eggs. Always store eggs in their original carton to protect them from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. It is also important to avoid washing eggs before storing them, as the protective coating on the shell can be removed, making them more susceptible to bacteria.
If you have an abundance of fresh eggs and want to preserve them for longer periods, you can consider freezing them. To freeze eggs, crack them into a container or resealable plastic bag, and place them in the freezer. Frozen eggs can last for up to one year. However, it is important to note that frozen eggs may separate upon thawing, so it is best to use them in cooked dishes rather than raw preparations.
In conclusion, fresh eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for about three to five weeks, but their quality may start to decline beyond this period. By following proper storage and handling techniques, you can extend the shelf life of fresh eggs and ensure that you’re enjoying them at their best. Remember to perform the float test to determine if an egg is still safe to eat, and consider freezing excess eggs to preserve them for longer periods.
