Do Eggs Expire? The Water Test & Freshness Guide
Eggs are tougher than they look—lasting 3-5 weeks in the fridge. But do they float? If yes, they're bad! Learn the float test, why the fridge door is the worst spot for them, and how to freeze yolks.
Spoilage Signs
- ⚠️ odor: sulfurous or rotten smell
- ⚠️ behavior: floats in water
- ⚠️ texture: watery or thin whites
- ⚠️ appearance: visible mold on shell
Is it spoiled?
Check specific signs of spoilage for Eggs
Expiration Calculator
Calculate exact shelf life based on purchase date
Shelf Life Guide
| Type | State | Pantry | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shell Eggs | fresh | Not Recommended | 3-5 weeks | Not Recommended |
| Yolks Whites Eggs | fresh | Not Recommended | 2-4 days | 12 months |
| Boiled Eggs | fresh | Not Recommended | 1 week | Not Recommended |
Data Source: USDA FoodKeeper App
Storage guidelines are based on research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Cornell University.
How Long Do Eggs Last? Testing Freshness & Storage Secrets
Eggs are one of the most resilient proteins in your fridge. Unlike meat or milk, they don’t spoil immediately after the date on the carton. In fact, store-bought eggs can remain fresh for 3 to 5 weeks (21-35 days) in the refrigerator.
The Float Test: Science in a Bowl
Eggshells are porous. Over time, air enters the egg and the liquid evaporates, creating a larger air pocket.
- Sinks & Lays Flat: Very Fresh.
- Stands on End: Older (2-3 weeks), good for hard boiling.
- Floats: Bad. The air pocket is huge. Bacterial gas may also be present. Discard.
Storage: Fridge vs. Counter
- Store-Bought Eggs (US): Must be refrigerated. They are washed, stripping the protective “bloom,” making them vulnerable to bacteria at room temperature.
- Farm-Fresh (Unwashed): Can sit on the counter safely if the bloom is intact, but will last significantly longer in the fridge.
Shelf Life Breakdown
- Fresh Shell Eggs: Lasts 3 to 5 weeks in the fridge.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Lasts 7 days in the fridge.
- Separated Whites/Yolks: Highly perishable. Use within 2 to 4 days.
Freezing Eggs: You can freeze eggs, but not in the shell! Crack them, whisk slightly, and freeze in a container for up to 1 year (360 days).
Frequently Asked Questions
How to test eggs in water?
Fill a bowl with cold water and gently drop the egg in. If it sinks and lays flat, it's fresh. If it stands up, it's older but okay. If it floats, it's bad—toss it.
How long are eggs good after expiration date?
Eggs are often good for 3-5 weeks after you buy them, which is usually past the sell-by date. Trust the water test or your nose over the date stamp.
How to tell if eggs are fresh?
Besides the float test, crack it open. A fresh egg has a high, domed yolk and thick whites that don't spread out much.