You can tell if eggs are still good using several simple methods:
1. The Water (Float) Test
- Fill a bowl with cold water and gently place the egg inside.
- If the egg sinks and lies flat on its side , it is very fresh.
- If the egg sinks but stands upright on one end , it is still safe to eat but less fresh.
- If the egg floats to the surface , it is too old and should be discarded
This works because eggshells are porous and over time air enters the egg, increasing its buoyancy.
2. Visual and Tactile Inspection After Cracking
- A fresh egg has a plump, round yolk and thick, gelatinous egg white that clings around the yolk.
- Older eggs have a flatter yolk and more watery, spread-out egg white.
- Look for any black or brown mold spots inside the shell, which indicate spoilage.
- Blood spots are safe but may be removed if undesired
3. Smell Test
- Fresh eggs have little to no odor.
- If an egg smells sulfurous or rotten after cracking, it should be discarded immediately
4. Shake Test
- Gently shake the egg near your ear.
- If you hear a sloshing sound, the egg is likely old because the yolk has become watery
Additional Tips
- Always check the date on the carton and buy from suppliers who provide packing dates.
- Store eggs in the refrigerator and use them within about 45 days from processing.
- Cook eggs thoroughly to reduce risk of foodborne illness
Using these methods together will help ensure your eggs are fresh and safe to eat. The float test combined with cracking and smelling the egg is the most reliable approach.
