5 Proven Ways to Check if an Egg is Fresh or Spoiled

Cracking an egg and wondering if it’s still good is a common dilemma. Since eggs have protective shells that conceal what’s inside, assessing their freshness can be tricky. Luckily, there are several reliable methods to determine whether your eggs are still safe to eat. In this guide, we’ll cover these techniques and share tips on reducing food waste.

The Cost of Food Waste: Why It Matters

Food waste is a global issue, with France alone discarding approximately 10 million tonnes of food every year—many of which are eggs. Much of this waste occurs because people aren’t sure how to check if an egg is fresh after its expiration date. Learning how to determine egg freshness not only helps avoid waste but also saves money.

5 Ways to Test Egg Freshness

1. Check the Expiration Date Every egg carton has a sell-by or best-by date. In countries like France, eggs must be taken off shelves seven days before their minimum durability date (Ddm). However, eggs remain safe to eat up to 28 days after being laid, and with proper refrigeration, they can last even longer past their sell-by date.
2. The Smell Test A foul smell is a surefire sign an egg has gone bad. When cracked, if you notice an odor resembling spoiled dairy or rotten sulfur, discard the egg. Fresh eggs have a neutral, clean scent with no detectable odor.
3. Inspect the Shell Before cracking an egg, always check its shell. A shell that feels powdery or sticky may indicate mold or contamination. Also, any cracks in the shell increase the risk of bacterial growth. Once cracked, if the egg white or yolk appears discolored—such as blue, pink, or green—it’s likely spoiled and should be thrown away.
4. Perform the Water Test Place the egg in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will sink and lie flat on the bottom. Eggs that stand upright or float are older and may need to be used immediately or discarded. This method is a simple, foolproof way to gauge egg freshness.
5. Try the Candling Method By holding an egg up to a bright light, you can observe its internal structure. Fresh eggs have small air cells, while older eggs will have larger air pockets, indicating the egg is aging. Candling is an effective way to check egg quality, especially for those who regularly buy in bulk.

Best Practices for Storing Eggs

• Refrigeration is Key: Always store eggs in the refrigerator, preferably in their original carton to protect them from absorbing strong odors from other foods. This helps maintain freshness and prevent bacterial contamination.
• Don’t Wash Until Use: Washing eggs can remove the protective coating that naturally prevents bacteria from entering the shell. It’s best to wait until you’re ready to use the eggs before washing them.

Avoiding Waste and Eating Safely

Knowing how to tell if an egg is fresh can help you cut down on food waste and ensure you’re only consuming quality eggs. Whether you use the water test, smell check, or examine the shell, these methods are simple and effective. By following proper storage tips, you can extend the life of your eggs and reduce unnecessary waste.

Incorporating these tips will not only keep you safe but can also help you make the most of your grocery budget. With eggs being a high-protein and versatile food, knowing how to store them properly means fewer trips to the store and less money spent.

Optimize Your Kitchen Today: Save money, reduce waste, and enjoy fresh eggs with these easy-to-follow methods!