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### 2. **Store Eggs in the Coldest Part of the Refrigerator**
Many people make the mistake of storing eggs in the fridge door, where temperatures tend to fluctuate due to the frequent opening and closing of the door. However, the coldest part of the fridge is typically the back of the bottom shelf, where the temperature remains more consistent.
Eggs should be kept in this area to ensure they stay at a steady, cool temperature, ideally between 35°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). If you store eggs in the fridge door, they will experience more temperature fluctuations, which can shorten their shelf life and negatively affect their quality.
### 3. **Avoid Washing Eggs Before Storing Them**
I used to wash my eggs when I brought them home, thinking that it would make them cleaner. However, washing eggs removes the natural protective coating on the eggshell, known as the “cuticle.” This coating acts as a barrier that helps prevent bacteria from entering the egg and keeps moisture in. By washing the eggs, you remove this protective layer, which makes the egg more vulnerable to contamination and quicker spoilage.
If you do notice dirt or debris on the eggshell, it’s best to gently wipe it off with a dry cloth or a soft brush. If you must wash the eggs, do so just before you plan to use them, not before storing them.
### 4. **Check for Freshness with the Float Test**
Have you ever opened an egg carton and wondered whether the eggs inside are still good? You’re not alone! Eggs can look perfectly fine from the outside, but they can be older than you think. Thankfully, there’s a simple way to check an egg’s freshness—without cracking it open.
The **float test** is the most reliable method for checking the freshness of an egg. Here’s how it works:
1. Fill a bowl or glass with water.
2. Gently place the eggs into the water.
3. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lie flat on their side.
4. If the egg stands upright or tilts at an angle but still sinks, it’s still safe to eat but may not be as fresh.
5. If the egg floats to the top, it’s no longer safe to eat and should be discarded.
The float test works because as eggs age, the small air cell inside the egg grows larger as moisture and air enter through the porous shell. Older eggs are more buoyant because of the increased air inside.
### 5. **Don’t Keep Eggs on the Counter for Too Long**
While it’s common to leave eggs out on the counter while preparing meals, it’s important to avoid leaving them out for extended periods of time. The USDA recommends not leaving eggs at room temperature for more than two hours. The reason for this is that bacteria can begin to multiply quickly at warmer temperatures, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
If you’ve left eggs out for longer than two hours, it’s best to discard them to ensure safety. Additionally, eggs should never be stored on the counter for long periods, even if you plan to use them soon. Consistently keeping eggs in the fridge helps preserve their freshness and reduces the risk of contamination.
### 6. **Understand the Expiry Dates**
Egg cartons typically come with a “sell by” or “use by” date printed on them, but these dates can often be confusing. It’s important to understand that these dates aren’t necessarily the end of the eggs’ shelf life. In fact, eggs can often stay fresh for a few weeks beyond these dates, provided they’ve been stored properly.
The “sell by” date is meant for retailers to know when to remove the eggs from the shelves, while the “use by” or “expiration” date is the manufacturer’s recommendation for when the eggs are at their best quality. However, eggs can last beyond these dates if stored in the fridge.
### 7. **Consider Freezing Eggs for Long-Term Storage**
If you find that you have more eggs than you can use before they expire, freezing them is a great option. Freezing eggs is a useful way to preserve them for future use, especially if you’re not able to use them all within a few weeks.
Here’s how to freeze eggs:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and lightly beat them together.
2. Pour the egg mixture into an ice cube tray or small containers (if you don’t want to freeze them in bulk).
3. Once frozen, transfer the egg cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container.
4. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw the eggs in the fridge overnight.
Frozen eggs are best used in cooking and baking, as they may not have the same texture when used for frying or scrambling.
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## Conclusion: The Importance of Proper Egg Handling
Looking back, I realize just how much I’ve learned about storing eggs properly and how these simple tips have transformed my approach to eggs. By taking the time to follow best practices—like keeping eggs in their original carton, storing them in the coldest part of the fridge, and checking for freshness—I’ve been able to enjoy fresher, longer-lasting eggs. This has not only saved me money by reducing waste but also improved the overall quality of my meals.
If there’s one thing I regret, it’s not learning these tips sooner. Eggs are such a fundamental part of our diets, and storing them correctly is one of the easiest ways to ensure that we’re always working with the freshest ingredients. So, next time you bring eggs home from the store, remember the advice shared in this article—and you’ll never look back!
