Can You Eat Eggs After The Best By Date?

Top Takeaways

• The “Best By” date on egg cartons indicates peak quality, not safety.
• Eggs can remain safe to eat beyond the “Best By” date if stored properly.
• Use the float test to determine egg freshness.
• Recognize signs of spoilage to avoid health risks.
• Understanding proper storage can extend egg usability.

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Table of Contents
1. Understanding Egg Carton Dates
2. How to Assess Egg Freshness
– The Float Test
– Visual and Smell Test
3. Risks of Consuming Eggs Past the Best By Date
4. Proper Egg Storage for Extended Freshness
5. Nutritional Changes in Older Eggs
6. FAQ
7. Conclusion

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Understanding Egg Carton Dates

The “Best By” date is about quality, not safety. Many people confuse the “Best By,” “Sell By,” and “Expiration” dates on egg cartons. Primarily, the “Best By” date is about peak quality as indicated by the USDA. Eggs are generally safe to eat a few weeks beyond this date, assuming they have been stored correctly (source).

For further insights on egg safety, visit Can You Eat.

How to Assess Egg Freshness

Understanding when an egg is still good involves simple tests.

The Float Test

1. Fill a bowl with cold water.
2. Place the egg gently in the water.
3. Observe:
   • Sinks and lays flat: The egg is fresh.
   • Sinks but stands upright: The egg is still good but not as fresh.
   • Floats: The egg is past its prime and should be discarded.

More on evaluating egg freshness can be found at Egg Safety.

Visual and Smell Test

• Crack the egg open on a clean bowl.
• Smell: A sulfur-like odor is a sign the egg is spoiled.
• Visual: Look for any pink, green, or iridescent colors which indicate bacterial growth.

Visit the Food Safety and Inspection Service for more safety tips.

Risks of Consuming Eggs Past the Best By Date

Eating eggs past the “Best By” date can have health risks. Although freshness can be maintained beyond this date, consuming eggs that show signs of spoilage can lead to foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides detailed information on preventing salmonella infection.

Proper Egg Storage for Extended Freshness

Proper storage is key to maintaining egg quality beyond the “Best By” date.

• Refrigerate immediately after purchase.
• Keep them in their carton: The carton protects against odors and keeps eggs from losing moisture.
• Temperature: Store at a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C).

For more tips, explore Can You Eat’s guidelines on food storage.

Nutritional Changes in Older Eggs

Nutritional value in eggs can diminish over time.

• Vitamins degradation: Vitamin efficacy can decrease as eggs age.
• Protein remains constant: However, the texture might change, becoming more runny as the egg whites thin.

For a detailed comparison of fresh versus older eggs nutrition, see Live Science.

FAQ

1. Can you cook and eat eggs that float?
   • No, floating eggs should be discarded as they’re likely spoiled.
2. How long after purchase should eggs be safe to consume?
   • Generally, eggs remain safe up to 4-5 weeks in the refrigerator.
3. Do eggs spoil faster outside the carton?
   • Yes, cartons help protect and preserve their freshness.
4. What if eggs have a slight odor when opened?
   • Any foul or rotten smell is a sign the egg should not be consumed.
5. Why does egg white become more runny?
   • Over time, the egg white loses carbon dioxide, thinning its texture.
6. Does the color of the eggshell affect spoilage?
   • No, eggshell color does not impact spoilage or safety.

Conclusion

Understanding how to properly assess and store eggs ensures their safety and quality, even past the “Best By” date. By utilizing simple tests and practicing good refrigeration habits, you can enjoy eggs confidently while minimizing waste. Always stay informed about food safety guidelines to protect your health and well-being.