Eggs are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that is found in a wide range of recipes. However, like any perishable food item, eggs can go bad if not stored properly or if they are past their expiration date.

Consuming a bad egg can lead to food poisoning, which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. To ensure your safety and the quality of your meals, it is essential to know how to tell if an egg has gone bad. In this article, we will discuss several methods to help you determine if an egg is still fresh or has spoiled.

1. Check the expiration date

The easiest way to know if an egg has gone bad is by checking its expiration date. Typically, eggs come with a “best before” or “expiration” date printed on the carton.

It is crucial to respect this date and refrain from using eggs that have passed it. As eggs age, their quality deteriorates, and bacteria can multiply, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Therefore, it is safer to discard eggs that are past their expiration date.

2. Examine the shell

Another method to determine the freshness of an egg is by examining its shell. Start by visually inspecting the eggshell. A fresh egg will have a clean and uncracked shell.

If you notice any cracks or hairline fractures on the shell, it may indicate that the egg is no longer fresh.

Additionally, you can perform the float test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg in it. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lie horizontally. On the other hand, bad eggs will float due to the gas buildup inside.

If the egg floats at an angle or stands upright, it is a sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded.

3. Smell the egg

A strong and foul odor is a reliable indicator that the egg has gone bad. Fresh eggs have a neutral odor, while rotten eggs emit a distinct sulfuric smell.

If you detect a foul or rotten smell when cracking the egg open, it is best to dispose of it immediately. Avoiding the consumption of spoiled eggs is essential to prevent food poisoning.

4. Observe the yolk and white

When determining the freshness of an egg, observe the appearance of the yolk and white. A fresh egg will have a bright yellow or orange yolk with a firm texture. The white should be clear and thick, rather than runny or watery.

On the other hand, a bad egg will have a discolored, runny yolk and a thin and watery white.

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5. Perform the shake test

The shake test is another simple method to assess the freshness of an egg. Hold the egg close to your ear and gently shake it. A fresh egg will make little to no sound, as the contents are tightly bound and the air pocket inside is minimal.

In contrast, a bad egg will produce a sloshing sound due to the excess liquid inside. If you hear a distinct sloshing noise, it is an indication that the egg has gone bad.

6. Conduct a candle test

The candle test is a traditional method used to inspect the air cell of an egg, which can provide insight into its freshness. To perform this test, darken the room and hold a small flashlight or candle near the base of the egg.

Observe the illuminated area just above the egg, where you will see a small air cell if the egg is fresh. If the air cell appears large or has detached from the shell, it suggests that the egg is no longer fresh.

7. Consider the egg’s behavior

Observing the behavior of an egg while cooking can also provide clues about its freshness. Fresh eggs will maintain their shape and have minimal spreading when cracked open into a pan.

If an egg spreads out significantly or has a runny consistency when cooking, it is likely that the egg has spoiled.

8. Trust your taste buds

While it is generally not recommended to consume raw or undercooked eggs, you can taste a small amount of the egg to determine if it has gone bad. However, exercise caution when using this method, as consuming a bad egg can lead to food poisoning.

If the egg has a rancid or off taste, it is a clear sign that it is spoiled and should be discarded.

9. Store eggs properly

To extend the shelf life of eggs and reduce the risk of spoilage, storing them properly is crucial. Always refrigerate eggs at a temperature below 45°F (7°C) to inhibit bacterial growth.

Store them in their original carton to protect them from absorbing other odors and flavors in the refrigerator. Additionally, avoid storing eggs near foods with strong odors, as eggs can absorb these smells easily.

10. Trust your instincts

Lastly, trust your instincts when it comes to determining whether an egg has gone bad. If anything feels off or you have doubts about an egg’s freshness, it is better to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Your health and safety should always be prioritized to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.