dairy
How Long Does Eggs Last?
Eggs lasts 3–5 weeks in the fridge (in shell, from purchase date). Store eggs in their original carton on a middle shelf — the carton blocks odor absorption and holds the date.
Fridge
3–5 weeks
in shell, from purchase date
Counter
0–2 hours
maximum at room temperature
Freezer
12–12 months
beaten, without shell
Once opened/cut
4–7 days
hard-boiled, in shell, refrigerated
Storage Tips
- Store eggs in their original carton on a middle shelf — the carton blocks odor absorption and holds the date.
- Keep pointed end down in the carton to center the yolk and reduce the air cell growth.
- Test freshness: a fresh egg sinks flat in water; a floater should be discarded.
How to Tell If Eggs Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Strong sulfur or rotten smell when cracked open — a single bad egg is unmistakable.
- Pink, green, or iridescent sheen on the egg white, indicating Pseudomonas bacterial contamination.
- Watery egg white that spreads out flat rather than holding shape around the yolk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you do the float test to check if an egg is still good?
Place the egg in a bowl of cold water. Sinks flat = very fresh. Stands on one end = still good but use soon. Floats = discard; the large air cell means significant gas has built up from decomposition.
Can you freeze eggs?
Never freeze eggs in the shell — they expand and crack. Crack into a bowl, beat lightly, pour into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray. Frozen beaten eggs keep up to 12 months and work great for scrambles and baking.
Why are hard-boiled eggs only safe for 1 week when raw eggs last 5 weeks?
Boiling removes the protective coating on the shell, making it porous and easier for bacteria to enter. The cooked white is also a better bacterial growth medium than a raw egg. Always peel just before eating when possible.
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