Eggs are generally good for about 3 to 5 weeks past the pack date if stored properly in the refrigerator. The "sell by" or expiration date on the carton is often set about 4 weeks after the eggs were packed. Even after the sell-by date, eggs can remain safe to eat for 2 to 3 weeks if kept refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C), though their quality (such as texture and taste) may decline over time. Experts say eggs can often be safely eaten 2 to 3 weeks past their sell-by or expiration date as long as they don't show signs of spoilage. The best way to test egg freshness is the float test: if the egg sinks to the bottom of a bowl of water, it's still good; if it floats, it's old and should be discarded. To summarize:
- Eggs can be safe to eat 3 to 5 weeks after the pack date.
- Eggs can remain good 2 to 3 weeks after the sell-by or expiration date with proper refrigeration.
- Always check freshness via smell, appearance, or a float test before use.
- Quality and taste may degrade after the sell-by date but eggs are often still usable for some time afterward.
This means eggs usually remain good for about 1 to 3 weeks past the sell-by date when stored correctly.
