How Long Do Eggs Last in the Refrigerator?

Eggs are a staple in many households, known for their versatility and nutritional value. Ensuring that eggs are stored properly can help maintain their freshness and prevent foodborne illnesses. Here's a guide to understanding how long eggs can last in your refrigerator and tips to maximize their shelf life.

Understanding Egg Shelf Life

The longevity of eggs in the refrigerator can depend on several factors, including whether they are raw or cooked and if they are stored in their shell. Here, we delve into the details to provide a clearer picture of egg shelf life.

Raw Eggs in the Shell

Raw eggs stored in their cartons in the refrigerator can last significantly longer than those left at room temperature. According to the USDA, eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 weeks after purchase. It's important to keep eggs in a stable, cold environment as fluctuating temperatures can reduce their shelf life.

Raw Egg Yolks and Whites

If you've separated eggs for recipes and are keeping raw egg whites or yolks, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2 to 4 days. For extended storage, consider freezing egg whites and yolks separately, although yolks require special preparation before freezing.

Cooked Eggs

Cooked eggs have a shorter refrigerator life than raw eggs. Here's a quick guide to how long different types of cooked eggs can last:

It's vital to store cooked eggs in airtight containers to prevent odors or bacteria from other foods contaminating them.

Tips to Extend the Shelf Life of Your Eggs

Proper storage techniques can help extend the freshness and safety of your eggs:

Store Eggs in the Main Body of the Refrigerator

Avoid storing eggs in the door, where temperature fluctuations are common. Instead, keep them in their original carton on a middle or lower shelf within the main body of the refrigerator where the temperature is more stable.

Keep Eggs in Their Original Carton

The original egg carton is designed to protect eggs from absorbing neighboring odors and flavors while ensuring they remain protected and fresh.

Check for Freshness

If you're unsure about egg freshness, try the water test. Place an egg in a bowl of water—if it sinks and lays flat on its side, it is fresh. If it stands upright or floats, it's likely time to discard it.

Egg Safety Precautions

Ensuring that eggs are safe to eat is as important as keeping them fresh. Here are some practices to help maintain egg safety:

Monitor the "Sell By" Date

While eggs can last beyond the "sell by" date, use this date as a guideline and prioritize using older cartons first.

Observe Proper Cooking Techniques

Cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 160°F can help eliminate harmful bacteria, ensuring they are safe to consume.

Address Cracks Promptly

Discard any eggs with cracked shells as these can serve as entry points for bacteria.

Eggs are a vital ingredient in countless dishes, treasured for their flavor and nutritional benefits. By following the guidelines above, you can help ensure your eggs remain fresh, safe, and ready for any recipe you have in mind.