You can tell if eggs are bad by using several simple methods: 1. Sniff
Test:
Crack the egg onto a clean plate or bowl and smell it. A bad egg will have a
strong, unmistakable sulfur or rotten odor, whether raw or cooked. If it
smells off, discard it immediately
. 2. Visual Inspection:
- Check the shell for cracks, sliminess, or a powdery coating, which can indicate bacteria or mold.
- After cracking, look at the egg white and yolk. Discoloration such as pink, green, or iridescent hues in the white or a flattened yolk suggests spoilage. Fresh eggs have a firm yolk and thick, slightly opaque whites
3. Float Test:
Place the egg gently in a bowl of water:
- If it sinks and lays flat on its side, it is very fresh.
- If it stands upright but still sinks, it is older but usually still good.
- If it floats, it is old and likely bad, as air pockets inside the egg grow larger over time
4. Texture Check:
When cracked, fresh eggs have a thick, slightly sticky white that doesn’t
spread much. Watery, runny whites indicate the egg is old or spoiled
. Additional Tips:
- Always wash hands and surfaces after handling eggs to avoid contamination.
- Store eggs in the refrigerator and cook them thoroughly to at least 160°F to kill bacteria like Salmonella
If an egg fails any of these tests, especially the smell or visual ones, it should be discarded to avoid foodborne illness.
