What Should I Know?
Eggs are a nutritious food, providing high-quality protein, as well as vitamins A, B12, D, and E.
In the European Union, eggs must be labeled with a best before date no longer than 28 days after the day they were laid.
Eggs may still be safe to eat after this date if stored correctly, but their quality (flavor, texture, color) may decline.
Spoiled eggs smell bad and should never be eaten.
The float test can give a rough indication of freshness, but it is not fully reliable.
If you choose to eat eggs after the best before date, they should be thoroughly cooked to reduce food safety risks.
Why Does It Matter?
Eggs are widely consumed, but they are also linked to foodborne illness risks if eaten raw or undercooked, especially after the best before date has passed. At the same time, discarding eggs that are still edible contributes to food waste. Understanding how to balance safety and sustainability is key.
What Do the Rules and Science Say?
In the EU, the best before date for eggs is fixed by law at 28 days from laying.
Eggs may still be safe after this date if they look and smell normal, but the risk of contamination (e.g., Salmonella) increases over time.
Always check odour: rotten or off-smelling eggs must be discarded, regardless of the date.
Float test:
Fresh eggs sink.
Older eggs may tilt upwards or float due to gas accumulation.
Floating is a sign of age, but only smell confirms spoilage.
Hard-boiled eggs lose their natural protective layer during cooking, making them more vulnerable to bacteria. They should be cooled, refrigerated, and consumed within 2 days.
How Should Eggs Be Stored and Handled?
Store eggs in the fridge immediately after purchase.
Avoid large temperature fluctuations, which may cause condensation and promote bacterial growth.
Do not wash eggs before storage, as washing removes the natural protective cuticle. If visibly dirty, wash only before cooking.
Discard broken or cracked eggs, as they are more prone to contamination.
Practice good kitchen hygiene: wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw eggs.
Common Misconceptions
“All eggs are unsafe after the best before date.” Not always true. Properly stored eggs may still be safe if they look and smell normal.
“Washing eggs makes them safer.” Washing before storage can actually increase the risk of contamination.
“Float test guarantees safety.” It only shows age; odour is the best indicator of spoilage.
“Hard-boiled eggs last as long as raw eggs.” Cooking removes the protective layer, so boiled eggs should be eaten within 2 days.
Why Are We Sharing This?
It may seem wasteful to throw away eggs just because the date has passed, but safety comes first. Knowing how to check and handle eggs properly helps you avoid foodborne illness while also reducing unnecessary food waste.