To tell if eggs are bad after cracking them open, follow these key steps:
- Visual Inspection : Crack the egg into a clean bowl or plate. Fresh eggs have thick, slightly opaque whites and a bright yellow or orange yolk that is rounded and sits high in the white. Bad eggs often have watery, clear whites or whites that look greenish, iridescent, or discolored. Any pink, green, or unusual discoloration in the yolk or white indicates bacterial growth and spoilage
- Smell Test : The most reliable indicator is the smell. A bad egg will emit a strong, unpleasant, sulfuric or rotten odor immediately upon cracking. If the egg smells off in any way, discard it right away
- Texture and Appearance : Fresh egg whites are thick and do not spread excessively. If the whites are runny or the yolk is flat and discolored, the egg is likely old or spoiled
- Additional Signs : Look for black or brown spots inside the shell, which can signal mold. Also, avoid eggs with cracked, slimy, or powdery shells, as these can be contaminated
In summary, after cracking an egg, check for off-colors, watery whites, and especially any foul odor. If any of these signs are present, the egg is bad and should be discarded to avoid foodborne illness
