Have you ever stood in the kitchen, staring at a carton of eggs, wondering if they’re still fresh? With their shells hiding the condition of the white and yolk, it can be tricky to tell. But fear not, we’ve got some easy ways to help you determine if an egg is fresh or not. Plus, we’ll share some tips on reducing food waste related to eggs.
When you buy eggs from the supermarket, you’ll notice a recommended use-by date on the packaging. But did you know that in France, eggs can’t be sold within seven days of their minimum durability date? If you buy eggs directly from a farm or henhouse, there’s no use-by date, but you can be sure they’re fresh for up to 28 days after laying.
Proper storage is key to keeping eggs fresh. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a month past the recommended use-by date, which is 58 days after they were laid. Just remember to keep them refrigerated to avoid any health risks.
So, how can you tell if an egg has gone bad? Start by giving it a sniff. Expired eggs often have a strong, unpleasant odor and should be avoided. If the smell seems normal, you can quickly use the egg in a recipe, like an omelette.
Your eyes can also help you spot a bad egg. Take a close look at the shell. If it appears powdery, sticky, cracked, or in any questionable condition, it may be a sign of mold. And if you crack the egg into a bowl, check for any unusual discoloration, such as blue, pink, black, or green colors in the egg white or yolk.
