Eggs are a staple in many households, and knowing how long they stay fresh is essential for both taste and safety. After purchasing eggs from the store, it’s important to understand their expiration dates and how long they can be stored in the refrigerator.
Find Expiration Date
Firstly, let’s talk about finding the expiration date on the egg carton. Most cartons have a “sell-by” or “expiration” date printed on them. This date indicates the last day the store should sell the eggs. However, it’s important to note that eggs are still safe to consume beyond this date if they have been stored properly.
Check Freshness of the Egg
Checking the freshness of an egg is relatively simple. Start by placing the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks to the bottom and lays flat on its side, it is fresh and safe to eat. If it stands upright at the bottom or floats to the top, it is no longer fresh and should be discarded.
When it comes to determining if an egg has gone bad, trust your senses. A bad egg will have a foul odor when cracked open, and the yolk and white may appear discolored or runny. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the egg away.
Recommended Refrigerator Keep Time
As for how long store-bought eggs can be kept in the refrigerator, they can typically be stored for 4-5 weeks from the pack date. However, it’s important to remember that the quality of the egg may deteriorate over time, affecting its taste and texture. To ensure the best quality, it’s recommended to use eggs within 2-3 weeks of purchase.
It’s worth noting that non-store bought eggs, such as farm-fresh or backyard eggs, may have different storage requirements. To learn more about the storage and freshness of non-store bought eggs, you can read this article.
