it is a product used in many dishes. If used on a regular basis, they should not pose any problems with freshness, but it is still better to check them. Those that got lost in the fridge should be checked and you don’t remember how long they were there. How can you easily and quickly check freshness? We present proven and effective methods. One of them is surprising.
This test is simple, effective and, above all, interesting. What’s more, you don’t have to break an egg and deal with a very unpleasant smell. What exactly is this method? You will need a light source: a small, powerful LED flashlight or the one on your phone should do the trick. It is best to perform this test in a dark room, so that the light will clearly pass through the shell.
Place a flashlight on the wide end of the egg and cover the sides with your hand so that the light does not escape but passes directly through the shell. An air chamber will be visible (resembling a crescent) and it is on this basis that the freshness of the eggs can be assessed. Recently laid eggs will have a barely visible air chamber, the interior will be uniform, and the yolk will be barely visible and located in the center. Slightly older ones (still suitable for consumption) will have a visible air chamber. On the other hand spoiled ones are often distinguished by dark spots or tiny cracks in the shell that are not visible to the naked eye.
This test allows you to see the eggs from the inside. Over time, the moisture in the egg white evaporates and air enters, enlarging the chamber, which allows you to evaluate the eggs without breaking them. However, in case of doubt, other methods can be used.
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In addition to using a flashlight, a water test is also a good solution. In this case, you also rely on the air chamber: older eggs will float on water. How to perform this test? You will need a pot and cold water. Put eggs in a dish and watch how they behave:
- Egg on the bottom (horizontal position) means that the checked art is very fresh. It is ideal for, among others: for scrambled eggs.
- The egg “standing” on the bottom means it is approximately 2-3 weeks old. It is still safe to eat, but it works best in cakes or hard-boiled (after thorough heat treatment).
- An egg floating under the surface means that the airbag is very large. To be safe, it’s best to throw them away.
Another method is visual assessment of the shell. Fresh eggs usually have a matte and slightly rough surface. If the shell is unnaturally smooth and shiny, the egg may no longer be very fresh. Additionally, you should avoid eggs with cracks or coatings.
If the above tests do not solve your doubts, you can rely on your nose and break the egg. If you feel the characteristic, pungent smell of sulfur, throw them away without hesitation.
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Proper use allows them to stay fresh longer. Many people automatically put purchased eggs in plastic containers and store them on the refrigerator door, but this is a big mistake. Opening the refrigerator door generates sudden temperature changes that destroy the structure of the egg. Therefore, it is definitely better to keep them on shelves inside, where the temperature is stable, preferably between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius.
Moreover, it is better to leave them in their original cardboard packaging. Cardboard guarantees the necessary air circulation and prevents the shells from absorbing intense odors from the refrigerator. Additionally you can place eggs with the wider end up. This is where the air chamber is located, and this position slows down the water evaporation process and allows you to maintain the proper quality of the yolk for longer.
By following these rules, Store-bought eggs can be safely stored for about 5 weeks. It is also worth keeping in mind the expiration date set by the manufacturer. Farm eggs lose their freshness faster and should not be left in the refrigerator for longer than 2 weeks.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, perchthof.at
