What is the average shelf life of an egg? How long do eggs last in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer? What is the best way to store eggs to increase their shelf life? Find out the answers to these questions and more below:
Shelf Life of Eggs
| Refrigerator | |
|---|---|
| Fresh | 3-4 Weeks |
| Substitutes | 3-5 Days |
| Egg Whites | 2-3 Days |
| Egg Yolks | 1-2 Days |
Fresh eggs can last for at least 66 days from the date of their packaging, which is 3 to 4 weeks after their best-by date. Some elements play a significant role in the longevity of eggs. The date and time printed on the egg carton is the most relevant date and usually goes by the name ‘packing date’. If you don’t keep the eggs in your fridge constantly, then their shelf life will be reduced, and they will become unsafe to consume. Eggs will remain fresh for an extended period of time if you store them in your refrigerator within their container, as this keeps their moisture content intact.
Purchasing Eggs
Always be certain that you are buying your eggs from a refrigerated case, and always check the sell-by or expiration date. You may also find a ‘packing date.’ It is safe to consume eggs after four to five weeks from the purchase date. Also, ensure that the eggs you are buying are free of any cracks. Bacteria tend to enter the fissures within the shells. If your eggs crack on the way home, then you can still use them without any issues. You can find a USDA-grade shield on the packaging of the eggs, which confirms that the eggs are quality-assured.
Storing Eggs
Farm fresh eggs don’t need refrigeration if you haven’t washed them, because they have a protective covering called bloom. If you have washed the eggs, then you need to place them in the refrigerator for safety reasons. Eggs will stay fresh for an extended period of time if they are refrigerated, with or without the bloom. In terms of freshness, it is believed that one unrefrigerated day equals one refrigerated week for eggs. Once you have refrigerated your eggs, they will be okay for you to eat for up to 6 months. You can also check the freshness of your eggs by putting them into a bowl of water; if they don’t float, then you are good to go. Otherwise, gases have developed in them, and they are unsafe for consumption.
Handling Eggs
You can thaw frozen eggs that are not cracked when you need them by putting them in the refrigerator. You can hard-boil them, but nothing besides this, as freezing them causes the yolk to become syrupy and thick, and it won’t flow like yolk that was never frozen. It also won’t blend well with the egg whites. At room temperature, thawing can take about 30 minutes. You must always wash your eggs before using them when you have placed them in the refrigerator. Washing them can get rid of any impurities that might be harmful to your health.
Cooking Eggs
Eggs are food with multiple uses. You can fry, boil, cook, and even bake them. You can either scramble your eggs or poach them. There are many ways to prepare your eggs. You can use eggs in sandwiches and salads, as well as in some other dishes. Eggs are also excellent for baking. The best part about this dairy product is that they work wonderfully in a variety of dishes. You can cook eggs according to your preferences and desires, and they will undoubtedly serve you right.