5 Easy Ways to Determine if an Egg is Fresh or Expired

Have you ever questioned whether an egg is still good to eat or not? Eggs can be tricky to judge because their opaque shells hide the condition of the white and yolk. But fear not! We have some simple tips to help you determine if an egg is fresh or expired.

5 ways to tell if an egg is fresh or rotten

1. Check the Expiration Date

When you buy eggs from the supermarket, they come with a recommended use-by date printed on the packaging. In France, it is even regulated that eggs cannot be sold seven days before their minimum durability date. But what if you get eggs from a henhouse? The use-by date for those eggs is a maximum of 28 days after the day they were laid. However, if the shells are not cracked or broken, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to one month past the recommended use-by date. Just make sure to maintain the cold chain to prevent any health risks.

2. Use Your Sense of Smell

Expired eggs often develop an unpleasant odor. If you notice a suspicious smell and the egg is past its expiration date, it’s best to throw it away. On the other hand, if the egg smells normal, you can quickly consume it by preparing an omelette or any other cooked dish.

3. Examine the Shell

Your eyes can also help determine if an egg is expired or edible. Check if the shell is not powdery, viscous, or cracked. Any unusual appearance may indicate the presence of mold or bacteria growth. Additionally, if you crack the egg into a bowl and notice any blue, pink, black, or green discoloration in the egg white or yolk, it’s a sign of bacteria growth and potential food poisoning. And if the egg yolk or white is leaking, it may indicate an aged egg that hasn’t reached its usage limit.

4. Do the Water Test

Another effective technique to determine the freshness of an egg is the water test. Fill a saucepan or salad bowl with water and gently place the egg inside. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lies flat, it is still good to eat. If it remains upright but at the bottom, it’s best to consume it quickly. However, if the egg floats to the surface, it is expired. As eggs age, they lose moisture, and the air pocket inside increases, causing the egg to float.

5. Try the Mirage Technique

This technique, known as candling, is commonly used in the industrial environment to assess egg quality. You can also do it at home using a candle or flashlight. Hold the light source towards the end of the egg and tilt it from left to right. This allows you to see the size of the air bubble inside. The larger the air pocket, the more aged the egg.

Remember, consuming food after its expiration date can be risky for your health, especially when it comes to raw fish, eggs, and meats. While some foods can be consumed after their expiration date, it is crucial to carefully check the packaging and trust your senses. Pay attention to any unusual smell or appearance, and always follow proper storage guidelines.