There are several reliable ways to tell if eggs are still good or have gone bad:
- Float Test: Place the egg in a bowl of water.
- If it sinks and lays flat on its side, it is fresh.
- If it sinks but stands on one end, it is still okay but not as fresh.
- If it floats, the egg is old and should be discarded.
- Sniff Test: Crack the egg open and smell it.
- A fresh egg has no odor.
- A bad egg emits a strong, unpleasant smell.
- Visual Inspection: Check the shell and contents.
- The shell should not be cracked, slimy, or powdery (mold).
- Once cracked, the egg white should be thick, not very runny.
- The yolk should be rounded and firm, not flat or discolored.
- Any pink or iridescent discoloration indicates bacterial growth and the egg should be discarded.
- Shake Test: Gently shake the egg near your ear.
- Hearing a sloshing sound can indicate the egg is no longer fresh.
Cooking eggs to a safe temperature is always important for safety. These methods together help ensure eggs are safe before consumption.
