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5 ways to tell if an egg is fresh or rotten

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5 Ways to Tell if an Egg Is Fresh or Rotten

Eggs are a kitchen staple, but sometimes it’s tricky to know if they’re still good to eat. Using a rotten egg can spoil your recipe and even cause foodborne illness. Fortunately, there are simple, effective methods to check the freshness of an egg before cracking it open. Here are five reliable ways to tell if an egg is fresh or rotten:

1. The Water Float Test

This classic test is quick and easy:

  • Fill a bowl or glass with cold water.
  • Gently place the egg in the water.

What to look for:

  • Fresh eggs sink and lay flat on the bottom.
  • Slightly older but still good eggs may stand upright on the bottom.
  • Rotten eggs float to the surface.

Why? As eggs age, the air pocket inside enlarges, making the egg more buoyant. If it floats, it’s likely spoiled and should be discarded.

2. The Sniff Test

Sometimes your nose knows best. After cracking the egg open:

  • Smell it immediately.

What to look for:

  • A fresh egg has a neutral, mild scent.
  • A rotten egg emits a strong, unpleasant sulfur smell.

If it stinks, don’t use it.

3. Visual Inspection

Before cracking, examine the egg shell and contents.

Check for:

  • Cracks or sliminess on the shell, which can allow bacteria in.
  • Powdery residue or mold spots on the shell.
  • After cracking, observe the egg white and yolk. Fresh eggs have thick whites and firm, round yolks. If the white is watery or the yolk breaks easily, the egg is older or spoiled.

4. The Shake Test

Hold the egg close to your ear and shake it gently.

What to listen for:

  • A fresh egg feels solid with no movement inside.
  • A bad egg may make a sloshing sound due to the thinning of the egg white and yolk.

If you hear liquid moving around, it’s a sign the egg isn’t fresh.

5. The Expiry Date and Storage

Always check the “best by” or “sell by” date on the carton.

  • Proper refrigeration extends egg freshness, so keep eggs stored in the coldest part of your fridge, not the door.
  • If stored properly, eggs can remain fresh for several weeks beyond the printed date.

Final Tips:

When in doubt, trust your senses—smell, look, and feel—and when uncertain, throw it out. Using fresh eggs ensures the best taste and safety in your cooking. Now you can confidently choose the freshest eggs for your meals every time!


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