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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-17 Origin: Site
Eggs are a staple in many kitchens, but how long do eggs last in the refrigerator? Proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness.
In this post, we’ll discuss how long eggs last in the fridge, how to store them properly, and how to spot signs of spoilage. You’ll also learn tips to maximize their freshness.
Eggs generally last 3 to 5 weeks in the refrigerator when stored correctly. This shelf life begins from the moment you purchase them. The eggs will remain safe to eat if kept at the right temperature and conditions. However, their quality may decline as time passes, so it’s important to consume them within this period for the best taste and texture.
● Shelf life: 3 to 5 weeks in the fridge.
● Time starts: From purchase, not the pack date.
Several factors influence how long eggs last in the fridge:
● Temperature: Eggs need to be stored at 40°F (4°C) or lower to stay fresh.
● Storage conditions: Properly stored eggs in their original carton on a fridge shelf maintain freshness longer.
● Egg's age: Fresh eggs last longer. Older eggs may have a shorter shelf life, even when refrigerated.
These factors all contribute to how well eggs stay fresh over time.
Keeping eggs in their original carton is essential for preserving freshness. The carton helps prevent eggs from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. It also keeps the eggs from moisture loss and helps maintain their protective coating. For best results, store the carton on an inside shelf rather than the fridge door, as the temperature fluctuates more in the door due to frequent opening and closing.
● Prevents odor absorption: Carton protects eggs from absorbing strong-smelling foods.
● Maintains freshness: Helps reduce moisture loss.
● Stable temperature: Shelves inside the fridge provide more consistent cooling.
Eggs should be stored at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep them fresh. This helps slow the growth of bacteria, extending their shelf life. Keeping the fridge at a consistent temperature is important, as temperature fluctuations can encourage bacterial growth, leading to spoilage.
● Optimal temperature: 40°F (4°C) or lower.
● Consistent cooling: Prevents bacterial growth and maintains egg freshness.
Raw whole eggs can last for 4 to 5 weeks in the fridge when stored in their shell. To maintain freshness, keep them in their original carton, which helps protect the eggs from odors and moisture loss. The colder and more consistent the temperature, the longer the eggs will stay fresh.
● Shelf life: 4 to 5 weeks
● Storage tip: Keep in original carton, in the coldest part of the fridge
● Raw Egg Whites: These last up to 4 days in the fridge when stored in a tightly covered container. They should be used quickly to maintain quality.
● Raw Egg Yolks: These last up to 2 days in the fridge. Store yolks in a covered container, ideally submerged in water to prevent drying out.
● Shelf life: Egg whites - up to 4 days; Egg yolks - up to 2 days
● In-Shell: Hard-boiled eggs, when stored in their shell, last for up to 1 week in the fridge. The shell helps protect the egg from bacteria and drying out.
● Peeled: Once peeled, hard-boiled eggs should be eaten the same day for the best quality. If stored in the fridge, they can last for up to 2 days.
● Shelf life: In-shell - up to 1 week; Peeled - up to 2 days
If you need to store eggs for a longer period, freezing is a great option. When freezing raw eggs, it’s best to separate them into individual components: whole eggs, egg whites, and egg yolks. This helps maintain their quality when thawed. Use separate containers for each, ensuring they are tightly sealed.
● Whole Eggs: Crack into a container, beat lightly, and store.
● Egg Whites: Store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
● Egg Yolks: Beat with a pinch of salt or sugar before freezing to prevent them from becoming too gelatinous.
Why not freeze whole eggs in their shells? Freezing eggs in the shell can cause the shell to crack due to the liquid expanding, which compromises quality.
When stored correctly in the freezer, eggs can last up to 1 year. Freezing helps preserve their freshness and nutritional value. However, be mindful of the different components:
● Egg Whites: Can last up to 1 year when stored properly.
● Egg Yolks: Require special treatment before freezing. Yolks should be mixed with a pinch of salt or sugar to prevent texture changes when thawed.
● Shelf life: Up to 1 year for both whites and yolks
● Special tip: Yolks need treatment to maintain their consistency after freezing.
To check if eggs are still good, you can use a float test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the eggs in it. If the egg floats, it’s best to discard it, as this means air has entered the shell, indicating age or spoilage. If it sinks and lays flat on the bottom, it’s still fresh.
● Float test: Fresh eggs sink, spoiled eggs float.
● Other cues: Look for visual and olfactory cues. Fresh eggs have a neutral smell, while spoiled eggs may emit a sulfuric odor.
If you notice any unusual coloring or a foul smell after cracking the egg open, it’s likely spoiled. The egg whites should be clear and slightly viscous, while spoiled eggs might have iridescent or cloudy whites. A strong sulfuric odor when cracked is a clear sign the egg is bad.
● Visual signs: Iridescent whites, unusual color.
● Smell: Sulfuric or rotten odor means the egg is spoiled.
In summary, eggs typically last 3 to 5 weeks in the fridge when stored properly. For best results, keep eggs in their original carton and place them in the coldest part of the fridge. Maintaining a consistent, low temperature helps preserve freshness and prevent spoilage.
Ensure your eggs stay fresh by following proper storage tips. At Sachikoo, we specialize in high-quality products designed to meet your needs. For more information or questions on storage solutions or our products, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help with tailored advice and solutions for your specific requirements.
Q1: Can eggs be eaten after the "best by" date?
A: Yes, eggs can be safe for consumption 1 to 2 weeks beyond the "best by" date, as long as they are stored properly in the fridge.
Q2: What happens if I leave eggs out of the fridge?
A: Leaving eggs at room temperature for more than 2 hours increases the risk of bacterial contamination and spoilage.
Q3: How can I maximize egg freshness?
A: Store eggs in their original carton in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Q4: Is it safe to freeze eggs?
A: Yes, freezing eggs is safe, but only without shells. Separate yolks and whites before freezing for better quality.
