You can often eat eggs past their best before date if they’ve been properly stored and show no signs of spoilage[1][2]. The “best before” date refers to quality, meaning eggs are at their freshest before this date, but may still be safe to eat afterward as long as you follow a few safety checks[2].
Here’s how to check eggs for safety:
- Visual inspection: Check for cracks, discoloration, or other visible defects. Discard any eggs that are broken or look unusual[1].
- Smell test: Crack the egg open and sniff. A fresh egg will be nearly odourless. If the egg smells unpleasant or sulphurous, discard it immediately[1][2].
- Float test: Place the egg in a glass of water. Fresh eggs lie flat at the bottom, while older eggs stand upright or float. A floating egg means it’s old but not necessarily spoiled; always use the smell and appearance tests too[1][2][4].
- Cooking: If an egg looks and smells normal, thoroughly cook it before consuming. It’s safest to use older eggs in baked goods or dishes where they will be fully cooked[1].
Guidance from food safety authorities like the USDA and the European Union confirms that eggs can be safe to eat after the best before date if they have been stored correctly (in the refrigerator, unwashed, and in their original carton)[1][3][5]. However, as eggs age, their quality and texture decline, and the risk of spoilage slowly increases with time. Never eat eggs that look or smell bad.
References
- [1] Is it safe to eat eggs after the expiration date? – Eufic
- [2] Eggs: fresh or not? How to enjoy eggs past their best before date – Too Good To Go Blog
- [3] How to Tell if Eggs are Good – Pete & Gerry’s
- [4] Is It Safe to Eat Expired Eggs? – Consumer Reports
- [5] What kind of dates are on cartons of fresh eggs? – Ask USDA
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