You can tell if an egg is bad using several simple methods: 1. The Float Test:
- Fill a bowl with cold water and gently place the egg in it.
- If the egg sinks and lies flat on its side, it is fresh and safe to eat.
- If it sinks but stands upright or tilts, it is still safe but less fresh.
- If the egg floats to the top, it is too old and should be discarded
2. The Sniff Test:
- Smell the egg, either in the shell or after cracking it open.
- A bad egg will emit a strong sulfur or rotten odor. If you detect this smell, the egg is spoiled and should be thrown away
3. Visual and Texture Inspection After Cracking:
- Crack the egg onto a clean plate.
- A fresh egg has a firm, rounded yolk and thick, slightly opaque egg white that clings around the yolk.
- An older egg will have a flatter yolk and watery, runny whites.
- Discoloration such as pink or iridescent hues in the whites or yolk indicates bacterial growth and spoilage
4. Shake Test:
- Hold the egg up to your ear and shake gently.
- If you hear sloshing, the egg is likely old and the yolk watery, which may indicate spoilage
Additional Notes:
- Check the egg shell for cracks or slimy/powdery coatings, which could indicate contamination
- Even if an egg passes the float test, always rely on smell and appearance to confirm freshness and safety
- Older eggs are better suited for hard boiling since they peel more easily, but should not be used if they smell or look off
Using these methods together helps ensure you do not consume bad eggs and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
