In the United States, eggs are classified as perishable products, necessitating refrigeration to prevent spoilage. With proper storage, they can endure longer than anticipated.
Eggs can be preserved for a few weeks in the refrigerator and up to one year in the freezer. Nevertheless, as time passes, the quality of the them may deteriorate, and their taste and texture may be affected.
How long do eggs last in the fridge and at room temperature?
How long do eggs last in the fridge ?
According to USDA, if eggs have been appropriately transported and stored, they can remain fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 weeks. Refrigerating an egg at temperatures below 40°F (4°C) decelerates the growth of bacteria. Hence, it reduces the possibility of bacterial infiltration through the egg’s shell.
It is ideal to store eggs in their original carton and keep them at the back of the refrigerator. This will help prevent them from absorbing any odors. Also, it protects them from temperature fluctuations caused by frequent opening and closing of the refrigerator door.
Freezing eggs in the shell is not recommended. However, you can crack them into a freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer for a year or more. When you want to use the frozen eggs, defrost then use them within a week.
Leftover egg yolks or whites, which were remained after making meringue or flan, can be stored in fridge for up to 4 days.
In the United States, Australia, Japan, Sweden or the Netherland, eggs should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. They need to be refrigerated as soon as possible.
The reason for a compulsory refrigeration in these countries is that the eggs are washed and sanitized shortly after being laid to prevent the contamination of Salmonella. This bacteria is commonly associated with food poisoning from poultry products. However, washing eggs can harm their natural protective cuticle. This may result in an increased susceptibility to bacterial penetration through the shell. The development of bacteria within an egg is what ultimately leads to its deterioration.
How long do eggs last at room temperature?
If you live in a country outside of the U and other refrigeration-required countries where hens are vaccinated against Salmonella and eggs are not washed or refrigerated, it is safe to store eggs at room temperature for 1-3 weeks.
Although eggs can be kept at room temperature in some countries, their quality will start to deteriorate after approximately five days. After about 21 days, the egg’s natural defenses will become less effective, making it more susceptible to spoilage.
If you want to keep eggs for longer, you can refrigerate or freeze them, but they won’t last as long as eggs that have been refrigerated from the start.
However, the quality of eggs tends to decline as time goes by. The air pocket within an egg increases in size, while the yolk and whites become thinner and less elastic. Ultimately, the egg may desiccate instead of rotting.
How long do hard boiled eggs last?
Hard boiled eggs can last for up to one week if they are stored properly in the refrigerator. After boiling, it is important to cool the eggs quickly and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and extends their shelf life.
Also, only peel the eggs only when you eat them as the shells can protect the them from bacterial contamination. However, note that as time goes on, they become less fresh and potentially develop a sulfurous odor. Therefore, consume them within a week to ensure the best taste and quality.
For other cooked eggs such as fried egg, poached egg and even unshelled hard boiled egg, store them in refrigerator in maximum 3 to 4 days.
Reference: Healthline
