Duration of egg storage: Time frames, preservation methods, and safety considerations
In the kitchen, eggs are a versatile ingredient used in countless recipes. But to ensure they remain safe and fresh, it's essential to follow some guidelines.
Firstly, when shopping for eggs, it's advisable to check them before buying. Avoid any that are cracked or dirty.
Once home, refrigeration is key. Eggs should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator, not the door, to maintain consistent temperature and prevent bacteria growth. Refrigerated eggs in the U.S. typically remain good and safe to eat for 3 to 5 weeks beyond the purchase or "sell by" date.
It's important to note that once eggs are refrigerated, they should remain refrigerated to prevent condensation and bacterial growth. Hard-boiled eggs in their shells can be safely stored in the fridge for about one week.
However, washing eggs before storage is not recommended, as it removes the natural protective coating and reduces shelf life. This is especially true for store-bought eggs, which are already washed and must be refrigerated promptly due to the removal of their protective coating.
Farm fresh eggs that are unwashed may last longer (up to 3-6 months refrigerated), but store-bought eggs must be refrigerated immediately after purchase.
Older eggs may not be suitable for poaching or frying due to a thinner and runnier interior. If an egg cracks after purchase, it should be broken into an airtight container and refrigerated, and used within 2 days.
It's also crucial to remember that foods containing eggs should be served immediately and any leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator. Unopened liquid pasteurized egg or egg substitutes can last for 10 days in the refrigerator, while opened ones can last for 3 days.
Eating eggs that have gone bad can cause serious illness, specifically salmonellosis. Symptoms of salmonellosis include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. People at higher risk of severe illness from salmonellosis include children under 5 years, adults over 65 years, and people with weakened immune systems.
To prevent illness, it's essential to store eggs properly and cook eggs and products that contain eggs thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria. If an egg shows signs of being bad, such as a clear egg white, pink or iridescent egg white, off-color or green egg white, black or green spots inside the egg, it should be discarded.
In summary, for store-bought eggs refrigerated as recommended, a 3-5 week safe consumption window beyond the purchase date applies, and proper refrigeration practices are critical to maximizing shelf life and safety. Older eggs can still be used for scrambling, hard-cooking, or in dishes such as casseroles or omelets. And remember, an egg that floats in water is not necessarily bad, but an egg with an unpleasant odor or an unusual appearance should be discarded.
[1] USDA. (2021). Egg Safety: Tips for Consumers. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety-education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/safe-food-handling/egg-safety-tips-for-consumers/ct_index [2] University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (2021). Egg Storage. https://ucanr.edu/sites/foodsafety/files/312605.pdf [3] Partnership for Food Safety Education. (2021). Egg Safety. https://www.fightbac.org/food-safety-tips/egg-safety/ [4] FoodSafety.gov. (2021). Hard-Cooked Eggs. https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/timechart.html [5] FoodSafety.gov. (2021). Raw Eggs. https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/raw_eggs.html
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and food-and-drink, eggs play a significant role due to their versatility in cooking, especially in various lifestyle recipes.
- To maintain the freshness and safety of eggs, it's scientifically proven that they should be refrigerated promptly, stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth, and not be left on the fridge door.
- Incorporating eggs into your food-and-drink choices, whether it's for poaching, frying, or creating dishes like casseroles or omelets, can contribute to a balanced health-and-wellness lifestyle. However, it's essential to ensure the eggs are safe by using them within the recommended shelf life and following proper storage guidelines.
