How to Tell if Eggs are Still Good

Eggs are a staple in most kitchens, but nothing is worse than cracking one open only to find it has gone bad. Knowing how to tell if eggs are still good can save you from unpleasant surprises and prevent food waste. Many people rely solely on the expiration date, but eggs can remain fresh beyond that if stored properly. Fortunately, several simple tests and visual cues can help determine an egg’s freshness. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to check if your eggs are still safe to eat and how to store them correctly for longer shelf life.

Checking the Expiration Date

One of the easiest ways to determine if an egg is still good is by looking at the expiration date on the carton. Many eggs remain fresh beyond this date, especially when refrigerated properly. The "sell by" or "best by" date provides a guideline, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the eggs are spoiled. According to the USDA, eggs can stay fresh for three to five weeks past the printed date. Always double-check freshness before throwing away eggs based only on the carton label.

The Float Test Method

The most popular way to test egg freshness is the float test. Fill a bowl with cold water and gently place the egg inside—if it sinks and lays flat, it’s fresh. An egg that tilts slightly but still touches the bottom is older but still safe to eat. If it floats, air has built up inside the shell, meaning the egg is likely spoiled. Floating eggs should be discarded to avoid potential foodborne illnesses.

Examining the Shell for Signs of Spoilage

Before cracking an egg, always inspect the shell’s condition. A fresh egg will have a clean, unbroken shell, while an old or spoiled one may have cracks or a slimy texture. Mold spots or a powdery appearance indicate bacterial contamination. The presence of any foul smell, even before cracking, is another warning sign. Discard any eggs that show visible signs of spoilage to prevent contamination.

Sniffing for Off Odors

A simple sniff test can reveal if an egg has gone bad. A fresh egg has no noticeable smell, but a spoiled one emits a strong sulfur-like odor. This rotten smell is caused by the breakdown of proteins inside the egg over time. If the odor is noticeable before even cracking the shell, it’s a clear sign of spoilage. Trust your nose—if it smells bad, don’t eat it.

Examining the Egg White and Yolk

Crack an egg onto a clean plate and inspect the egg white and yolk. A fresh egg has a thick, firm white and a rounded, bright yellow yolk. If the egg white is thin, runny, or cloudy, it may be past its prime. A dull or flat yolk is another indicator that the egg is aging. Eggs with watery whites may still be safe for cooking but are best used in baked goods rather than eaten on their own.

Listening for a Sloshing Sound

Another less common but effective method is the shake test. Hold the egg close to your ear and give it a gentle shake—if you hear sloshing, the egg is old. As eggs age, the contents shrink, and the air pocket grows, allowing the liquid inside to move around. A completely silent egg is likely fresher than one that makes noise. While not as precise as other methods, the shake test can still be a helpful indicator.

Understanding Egg Storage Conditions

Proper storage plays a significant role in keeping eggs fresh. Always refrigerate eggs at a temperature of below 40°F (4°C) to slow bacterial growth. Keeping eggs in the main section of the fridge, rather than the door, helps maintain a stable temperature. Store them in their original carton to protect them from absorbing strong odors from other foods. Correct storage extends freshness and prevents premature spoilage.

Pasteurization and Safety Concerns

Pasteurized eggs undergo a gentle heating process to kill bacteria while keeping the egg raw. These eggs are ideal for recipes that require raw or lightly cooked eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise. If consuming raw eggs, ensure they come from a trusted source to minimize the risk of salmonella. The FDA advises pregnant women, young children, and those with weakened immune systems to avoid raw eggs. When in doubt, cook eggs thoroughly to eliminate bacteria and ensure food safety.

Knowing When to Use Older Eggs

Just because an egg is older doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. Slightly older eggs can still be used for baking, boiling, or scrambling. In fact, eggs that are a bit older peel more easily after boiling due to air pockets forming under the shell. However, always test them before use to ensure they haven’t gone bad. Using eggs wisely helps reduce food waste and ensures safe consumption.

Trusting Your Judgment

At the end of the day, trusting your instincts is essential when determining egg freshness. If something seems off—whether it’s the smell, texture, or appearance—it’s best to discard the egg. Consuming bad eggs can lead to food poisoning, nausea, and digestive issues. Being cautious helps protect your health and prevents unpleasant experiences. When in doubt, throw it out—it’s not worth the risk.

Simple Ways to Test Egg Freshness

1. Check the expiration or "best by" date on the carton.
2. Perform the float test in water.
3. Inspect the shell for cracks, mold, or slime.
4. Smell the egg for any sulfur-like odors.
5. Examine the egg white and yolk after cracking.
6. Listen for a sloshing sound when shaking the egg.
7. Consider the storage conditions and refrigeration time.

Best Practices for Storing Eggs

1. Keep eggs refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).
2. Store eggs in their original carton to protect from odors.
3. Place eggs in the fridge’s main compartment, not the door.
4. Avoid washing eggs before storing, as this removes protective coating.
5. Use older eggs for baking or boiling instead of frying.
6. Label eggs with purchase dates to track freshness.
7. Consider freezing eggs for long-term storage (beaten, not whole).

Pro Tip: To extend the freshness of eggs, store them with the pointed end facing down. This helps keep the yolk centered and slows air infiltration, preserving their quality for a longer time.

“A fresh egg will never let you down, but a bad one will surely leave a lasting impression.”

Egg freshness is easy to determine with the right techniques, so there’s no need to rely solely on expiration dates. By using simple tests like the float method, sniffing for odors, and checking the shell, you can confidently decide whether an egg is still good. Proper storage is key to maintaining egg quality and reducing unnecessary waste. If this guide helped you, be sure to share it with friends and family so they, too, can keep their eggs fresh and safe. Bookmark this page for quick reference the next time you’re unsure about your eggs!