How Long Does Egg Last in the Fridge? Expert Guide

We’ve all been there: you’ve got a carton of eggs in the fridge and you’re not quite sure if they’re still good to use. Maybe it’s been a few weeks, or maybe you just want to be sure before cracking them open for that perfect omelette. But don’t worry! In this ultimate guide, we’re diving deep into how long eggs last in the fridge, how to tell if they’ve gone bad, and tips to make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible. Let’s get cracking!

How Long Do Eggs Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

When it comes to eggs, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long they last. The truth is, eggs can last quite a while in the fridge – but it depends on a few factors. Fresh eggs, when stored properly, can last anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks in the fridge, but things can change depending on how they were handled, when they were bought, and whether they’ve been cooked or not.

Understanding the Shelf Life of Eggs

Eggs have a natural protective coating that helps keep them fresh longer, but once that coating is removed (like when you buy pre-washed eggs), their shelf life starts to decrease. Eggs typically have a “sell by” or “expiration” date printed on the carton, but that doesn’t mean they’ll go bad the day after. In fact, many eggs last well past this date if stored properly.

• Fresh, Unopened Eggs: Eggs can last anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks past the “sell by” or “expiration” date if stored in the fridge.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Once cooked, hard-boiled eggs last for about one week in the fridge.
• Cracked or Scrambled Eggs: If you’ve cracked eggs and mixed them up for an omelette or baking, use them within 2 days for the best taste and safety.

Best Practices for Storing Eggs

To maximize the freshness of your eggs, you need to make sure they’re stored correctly. Here are a few tips to help you out:

• Keep them in their carton: Storing eggs in their original carton helps prevent them from absorbing strong odors in the fridge and also helps them stay fresher longer.
• Store them in the coldest part of the fridge: The back of the fridge is typically the coldest, so that’s where you should place your eggs. Avoid storing them in the door, where temperatures fluctuate more.
• Don’t wash eggs before storing: Washing eggs removes their natural protective coating, which can make them spoil faster. Only wash them if you plan on using them immediately.

How to Tell if Eggs Are Bad

Even with the best storage practices, eggs don’t last forever. Here are a few simple ways to check if your eggs are still good to use:

• The Float Test: Fill a bowl with water and gently drop your eggs in. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lie flat. If an egg floats, it’s bad and should be discarded.
• The Sniff Test: A foul or sulfur smell is a clear sign that an egg has gone bad, whether raw or cooked. Always sniff eggs before cracking them open.
• The Visual Check: If you crack an egg open and notice any unusual discoloration, such as a pinkish or greenish tint, that’s a sign it’s time to toss it.

Factors Affecting the Freshness of Eggs

Several factors can influence how long eggs last in the fridge, such as:

• The egg’s age when purchased: Eggs are often several days or even weeks old by the time they hit the store shelves, so always check the packaging date if possible.
• How the eggs were handled: Eggs that have been dropped or jostled around too much may have cracked shells or compromised freshness.
• The quality of the fridge: A refrigerator with fluctuating temperatures or poor airflow might reduce the shelf life of your eggs.

How to Make Eggs Last Longer in the Fridge

While eggs have a pretty decent shelf life on their own, there are a few things you can do to extend their freshness and make sure they stay as good as possible while they’re in the fridge. Let’s take a look at some easy-to-follow tips to keep those eggs fresh for as long as possible.

Proper Temperature is Key

The number one factor in keeping eggs fresh is maintaining a steady, cool temperature. Your fridge should be set at or below 40°F (4°C). Keeping your fridge at this temperature ensures that eggs stay fresh longer and don’t spoil too quickly. If the temperature in your fridge is too high or inconsistent, eggs will go bad much faster.

The Power of Egg Cartons

Egg cartons aren’t just there for looks – they play an important role in keeping your eggs fresh! The carton helps prevent eggs from absorbing smells or flavors from other foods in the fridge, which is why it’s important to leave eggs in their original carton. This simple trick helps preserve their quality.

Don’t Store Eggs in the Door

The fridge door might seem like a convenient place to store eggs, but it’s actually the warmest part of the fridge. The temperature in the door fluctuates each time you open and close the fridge, which can cause eggs to spoil more quickly. Instead, store eggs in the main body of the fridge, preferably in the back where it’s cooler.

Use Eggs Before They Expire

The expiration date on the carton is a helpful guideline, but don’t rely solely on that. Remember that eggs can last for several weeks after the “sell by” or “expiration” date. If you’re unsure whether your eggs are still good, try the float test or the sniff test to confirm their freshness.

Freezing Eggs for Long-Term Storage

If you have eggs that are nearing their expiration date but you’re not ready to use them, you can freeze them to extend their shelf life. Here’s how you can freeze eggs:

• Whole eggs: Crack eggs into a bowl, beat them slightly, and pour them into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the egg cubes to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 6 months in the freezer.
• Egg whites and yolks: You can also freeze egg whites and yolks separately if you don’t need whole eggs. Just be sure to label them, so you know which is which!

Keep Hard-Boiled Eggs Safe

Hard-boiled eggs are a great snack, but they don’t last as long as raw eggs. Once they’re cooked, they should be eaten within one week. Store them in the fridge with their shells on to keep them fresher for longer. After peeling them, make sure to eat them within a day or two.

Avoid Buying Eggs in Bulk

It might be tempting to stock up on eggs when they’re on sale, but buying in bulk can sometimes mean you end up with eggs that go bad before you have a chance to use them. Instead, try buying smaller quantities that you know you can use within a couple of weeks.

Keep Your Fridge Clean

A clean fridge helps maintain the right temperature and airflow, which is essential for keeping your eggs fresh. Regularly clean spills or crumbs, and make sure the fridge’s vents are unobstructed. A dirty fridge can lead to fluctuating temperatures and shorten the shelf life of eggs and other foods.

I hope this article helped you understand how to keep your eggs fresh and how long they last in the fridge. Storing eggs properly and knowing the signs of freshness can save you money and reduce food waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to eat eggs past the expiration date?

Yes, eggs can be safe to eat after the expiration date, as long as they are stored properly and pass freshness tests like the float test.

Can you freeze eggs to extend their shelf life?

Yes, eggs can be frozen to extend their shelf life. You can freeze them whole, or separate the whites and yolks.

Do I need to wash eggs before storing them in the fridge?

No, washing eggs removes their natural protective coating and can make them spoil faster. Store them in their original carton without washing.

Is it okay to eat hard-boiled eggs after 7 days?

Hard-boiled eggs are safe to eat up to one week after cooking, as long as they are stored in the fridge and kept in their shells.

Can I store eggs in the fridge door?

It’s not recommended to store eggs in the fridge door because temperatures fluctuate there. It’s better to store them in the back of the fridge.

Is it normal for eggs to have a slight odor when cracked?

A slight odor can be normal, but if the smell is foul or sulfuric, the egg has likely gone bad and should be discarded.

Do I need to refrigerate eggs?

Yes, in many countries, eggs should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth and ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible.

Can eggs go bad without smelling?

Yes, eggs can go bad without an obvious smell. It’s always a good idea to check for other signs of freshness, like the float test.