How Long Do Eggs Last Past Sell by Date?
The sell-by date on egg cartons is not federally required but may be state required.
However, fresh shell eggs can be consumed four to five weeks beyond the Julian date (the date eggs were packed) if kept refrigerated at 45 °F or lower.
Some cartons may have an additional expiration date, but as long as the eggs are kept refrigerated, they are still safe to eat beyond this date.
It is important to note that eggs should be cooked thoroughly to 160°F and not eaten raw or undercooked.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Eggs can actually be safely consumed beyond their sell-by date, as long as they are properly stored. If stored in the refrigerator, eggs can usually last up to 4-5 weeks past the sell-by date.
2. The sell-by date on eggs is not an indication of their freshness, but rather a guide for retailers regarding how long they can display the eggs for sale. Fresh eggs can often be consumed weeks after the sell-by date.
3. A simple way to determine the freshness of an egg is to place it in a bowl of water. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it is fresh. If it stands upright at the bottom or floats to the top, it should be discarded.
4. Storing eggs in their original carton in the coldest part of the refrigerator helps maintain their freshness for a longer period. The carton helps protect the eggs from absorbing other odors and flavors in the fridge.
5. Eggs should never be frozen in their shells, as the liquid inside expands when frozen, causing the shells to crack. However, cracked eggs can be frozen, but it is recommended to remove them from the shell and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Freshness Beyond The Sell-By Date
Fresh shell eggs can be consumed four to five weeks beyond the Julian date, as long as they are kept refrigerated at 45 °F or lower. Refrigeration slows down the deterioration process and helps maintain the quality of the eggs. It’s important to note that this guideline applies to fresh shell eggs, not processed or pre-packaged eggs.
While some cartons may also have an expiration date (EXP) stamped, refrigerated eggs are still safe to eat beyond this date. However, it’s always a good practice to check for any signs of spoilage, such as off-odor or unusual appearance, before consuming eggs that have surpassed their sell-by or expiration date.
To summarize:
- Fresh shell eggs can be consumed four to five weeks beyond the Julian date if refrigerated at 45 °F or lower.
- This guideline applies to fresh shell eggs, not processed or pre-packaged eggs.
- Refrigerated eggs are still safe to eat beyond the expiration date stamped on the carton.
- It’s important to check for signs of spoilage before consuming eggs past their sell-by or expiration date.
“It is always a good practice to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming eggs that have surpassed their sell-by or expiration date.”
Understanding Expiration Dates On Egg Cartons
When purchasing eggs, it is important to understand the different dates on the carton, such as the sell-by or expiration date. These dates are not federally required, but they may be mandated by the state. The sell-by date is intended for retailers as a guide to know when the eggs should no longer be displayed for sale. However, consumers can still safely consume eggs beyond this date if they have been properly refrigerated.
Another important detail is the three-digit code found on egg cartons, which indicates the date of packaging. This code allows consumers to determine when the eggs were packed. Most states have a requirement for a pack date to ensure freshness and proper handling. In general, eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for four to five weeks beyond the packaging date.
- It’s important to understand the different dates on egg cartons, such as sell-by or expiration date
- The sell-by date is for retailers and indicates the last day the eggs should be displayed for sale
- Properly refrigerated eggs can still be consumed beyond the sell-by date
- A three-digit code on egg cartons indicates the date of packaging
- Most states have a requirement for a pack date to ensure freshness and proper handling
- Eggs can generally be stored in the refrigerator for four to five weeks beyond the packaging date.
Guidelines For Storing Eggs In The Refrigerator
To ensure the longevity and freshness of your eggs, it is important to follow proper storage guidelines. Eggs purchased from the grocery store should be refrigerated in their original carton to protect them from absorbing odors from other foods and prevent moisture loss.
It is recommended to store eggs in the main body of the refrigerator, rather than the door, as the temperature in the door fluctuates more. Keeping eggs at a temperature of 45 °F or lower is essential to maintain their quality. Additionally, it is advisable not to wash eggs before storing, as this can remove the natural protective coating, making them more susceptible to bacteria.
Variations In Expiration Dates Based On USDA Grade Logo
Egg cartons with the USDA grade logo cannot have an expiration date exceeding 30 days after the eggs were packed. The USDA grade logo guarantees that the eggs meet specific quality standards. This limitation on expiration dates helps to ensure that the eggs remain fresh and safe for consumption.
It is worth noting that eggs packed in cartons without the USDA grade logo may be subject to state laws. These laws can vary from state to state, and expiration dates for eggs without the USDA grade logo may be different. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your particular state to ensure you understand the expiration dates for eggs in such cartons.
– Eggs with USDA grade logo have a maximum expiration date of 30 days from packing date
– Cartons without USDA grade logo may have different expiration dates based on state laws
– It is crucial to know the regulations in your state regarding expiration dates
State Laws And Packaging Dates For Eggs
The packaging dates for eggs are regulated by state laws to ensure freshness and quality. Different states may have varying requirements for the inclusion of a specific pack date on the carton. These dates provide consumers with valuable information about the freshness of the eggs and facilitate proper handling and rotation in grocery stores.
Note: State laws can affect expiration dates on egg cartons that do not display the USDA grade logo. To ensure quality and safety, it is important for consumers to understand and follow these state regulations.
Proper Handling And Cooking Of Eggs
To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, eggs should always be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure any potential harmful bacteria are destroyed. This temperature applies to both egg yolks and whites. It is recommended to avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs, as they can pose a risk of Salmonella contamination.
Hard-boiled eggs should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and used within a week. Any remaining intact eggs should also be refrigerated promptly to maintain freshness. Moreover, it is important to note that floating eggs do not necessarily indicate spoilage or lack of freshness. However, if an egg floats, it is advisable to check for off-odor or an unusual appearance before using it.
In conclusion, eggs can last beyond their sell-by date when properly stored in the refrigerator. By understanding the various dates on egg cartons, following proper storage guidelines, and adhering to state laws, consumers can enjoy fresh and safe eggs. Additionally, cooking eggs thoroughly is vital to ensure any potential bacteria are eliminated, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat eggs past sell-by date?
While the sell-by date on eggs is primarily an indicator of their freshness and taste, they can still be consumed safely past this date. Although the quality may decline, consuming eggs beyond their sell-by date does not pose a health risk. Therefore, feel free to crack open those jumbo eggs even if the sell-by date has passed, as you can enjoy them up to two months later without any concerns for your well-being.
Are eggs good 10 days after sell-by date?
Yes, eggs are generally still good to eat 10 days after their sell-by date, provided they have been properly stored in the refrigerator at or below 45 °F. The Julian date on the carton indicates when the eggs were packed, and as long as they are within four to five weeks beyond that date, they can still be safely consumed. It is important to always check for signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or unusual texture, before consuming eggs past their sell-by date.
How do you tell if eggs are actually expire?
One way to determine if eggs are past their expiration date is to perform a float test. Simply place the egg in a bowl or bucket of water. If the egg sinks to the bottom, it is fresh and safe to eat. On the other hand, if the egg tilts upwards or floats, it is likely past its expiration date. This is because as eggs age, the air pocket inside them grows larger, causing them to float.
Do eggs expire in fridge?
Eggs stored in the refrigerator have a longer shelf life compared to those left at room temperature. While the “Sell-By” date on the carton may expire within three to five weeks, the eggs will still remain safe for consumption. It’s essential to purchase eggs before the expiration date mentioned on the packaging to ensure their freshness and quality.