Hard-boiled eggs can last in the refrigerator for up to seven days if stored properly. This applies whether the eggs are left in their shells or peeled, although peeled eggs should ideally be eaten sooner or checked carefully for spoilage before consumption
. Key storage tips include:
- Refrigerate the eggs within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth
- Keep unpeeled eggs in their shells to help protect them and retain moisture
- Store eggs in airtight containers to avoid absorption of odors and moisture
- If peeled, consume the eggs as soon as possible, ideally within the same day, but they can last up to a week if properly refrigerated and checked for freshness
- Pickling peeled eggs can extend their shelf life up to four months when stored in the fridge
Signs that hard-boiled eggs have gone bad include a strong sulfuric smell, discoloration (such as a gray-green ring around the yolk), sliminess, or any unusual texture
. In summary, hard-boiled eggs kept in the fridge last about one week, with unpeeled eggs generally lasting longer and peeled eggs requiring more careful handling to ensure safety
