Eggs are a staple in almost every kitchen, but are you storing them correctly? Many of us have been doing it wrong without even realizing it. The way you store your eggs can impact their freshness, flavor, and safety. Here’s what you need to know.
The Fridge Is Your Friend
In many parts of the world, including the U.S., eggs are washed before they’re sold. This process removes the natural protective coating on the eggshell, which helps prevent bacteria from entering.
Without that coating, it’s essential to store eggs in the fridge to keep them fresh and safe to eat.
While you might see eggs sitting on the counter in some countries, it’s generally best to keep them in the fridge. Cold temperatures slow down the growth of bacteria like salmonella, keeping your eggs safe for longer.
Where in the Fridge Should You Store Eggs?
It’s not just about refrigerating your eggs — where you store them in the fridge matters too. Most of us are guilty of storing eggs in the door, but this is actually the worst place for them.
AThe temperature in the fridge door fluctuates every time you open and close it, which can cause the eggs to spoil faster.
Instead, store your eggs in the main body of the fridge, ideally toward the back where the temperature is more stable. This will help your eggs stay fresh for longer.
The Best Way to Store Eggs
Here are some tips for storing eggs the right way:
- Keep them in their original carton: The carton helps protect the eggs from absorbing strong odors in the fridge and shields them from light, which can affect the freshness of the yolk.
- Don’t wash eggs before storing: If you buy unwashed eggs (common at farmers’ markets), resist the urge to wash them before storing. Washing eggs removes their natural coating and can allow bacteria to enter through the porous shell.
- Check the expiration date: Most egg cartons come with a “best by” or expiration date. While eggs can often last a little past this date, it’s a good guide to follow for optimal freshness.
How to Test if Eggs Are Still Fresh
Not sure if your eggs are still good? You can do a simple water test:
- Fill a bowl with water.
- Gently place the egg in the water.
- If it sinks and lies flat, it’s fresh.
- If it stands up on the bottom, it’s still okay but should be used soon.
- If it floats, it’s time to toss it.
Storing eggs the right way isn’t complicated, but it can make a big difference in how fresh and safe they are to eat. Next time you bring home a carton, make sure you’re giving those eggs the care they deserve.
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