Do you know eggs have an expiry date? What consumers must know

Expired eggs can be dangerous: What causes eggs to spoil, how long they are safe, and how to spot a bad egg

As winter sets in, eggs become a popular choice for many people looking to increase their protein intake. To avoid frequent trips to the market, households often buy eggs in bulk. However, eggs are not meant to last forever. Like all food items, they have a limited shelf life, and improper storage can cause them to spoil faster. Consuming spoiled or expired eggs can lead to food poisoning and serious health issues, making it important to understand how eggs deteriorate and how to use them safely.

Why Do Eggs Go Bad?

One of the main reasons eggs spoil is the growth of Salmonella bacteria. Salmonella is a harmful bacterium known to cause food poisoning and severe stomach infections. When eggs are stored for a long time, their internal structure slowly changes.

Inside every egg is a small air pocket. As days pass, this air pocket gradually expands. Because of this change, the egg yolk becomes firmer, while the egg white turns thin and watery. These changes reduce the freshness of the egg and make it unsafe to consume over time.

How Long Are Eggs Safe to Eat?

The shelf life of eggs depends largely on how they are stored. Eggs that are intact (not cracked) and kept in a refrigerator can usually remain safe for consumption for about three to five weeks. Refrigeration slows bacterial growth and helps preserve freshness.

Cracked eggs should never be stored in the refrigerator for long periods. They can be frozen, but freezing eggs is not always recommended unless necessary. If eggs are frozen, the freezer temperature must always remain below 0°F (-18°C) to prevent spoilage.

Simple Ways to Identify Spoiled Eggs

There are several easy and reliable methods to check whether an egg is fresh or has gone bad:
•    Water Test: Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks and lies flat at the bottom, it is fresh. If it floats on the surface, the egg is spoiled and should not be eaten.

•    Smell Test: A rotten egg gives off a strong, unpleasant odor. Any bad smell is a clear sign to discard the egg.

•    Shake Test: Hold the egg close to your ear and gently shake it. If you hear a sloshing or liquid sound inside, it means the egg is old.

•    Color and Texture Check: After cracking the egg, look at the yolk and egg white. If the yolk breaks easily, the white looks slimy, or there are unusual color changes, the egg is no longer safe.

Proper Storage Matters

To extend the freshness of eggs, they should always be kept away from heat. Storing them in a cool, dark place, preferably inside a refrigerator, helps slow down spoilage. Avoid leaving eggs exposed to room temperature for long periods, especially in warm conditions.

Health Warning

Eating spoiled eggs can cause food poisoning, with symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. To avoid health risks, always check eggs before use and never consume eggs that show signs of spoilage.