Before consuming an egg, we always ask ourselves if the product is still fresh. Often, the first reflex that is adopted in the kitchen is to check the condition of the egg white. When it is colored, it is a sign of rotting that should not be neglected. However, there are other simple tricks to check your egg without having to break its shell. We’ll tell you how.
It is true that a fresh egg is easily identified by simply breaking its shell. This technique, which is the most commonly used, remains the best indicator of freshness, the change in color of the egg white being an infallible sign. However, it is not always possible to break the shell, especially when cooking hard-boiled eggs.
How to check if your egg is still fresh and edible?
It is not always easy to know if the eggs in the refrigerator are still good. Before you throw your egg in the garbage, you should take the time to try one of these tips. They’ll give you clues to its freshness in no time.
– Check the package before eating an egg
When in doubt about the freshness of an egg you are about to consume, it is a good idea to first check the best before date (BFD) on the egg package or on the egg shell. As a general rule, the best before date does not exceed 28 days after the day of laying. After this date, if the shell of your egg is in perfect condition, it can be stored in the refrigerator to be consumed within a month.
– Dip your egg in water
This is probably the most common grandmotherly trick to check the freshness of an egg. Simply use a clear container or bowl into which you pour water. If the egg remains at the bottom of the container, it is safe to eat, such as soft-boiled. If, on the other hand, the egg floats in the middle of the container and stands upright, it should be eaten first. Choose recipes with hard-boiled eggs or omelets that are well cooked. If the egg floats to the surface, it is a sign that it should not be eaten. Throw it out immediately!
– Take a good look at your egg
While the sniffing trick is effective in detecting an expired egg, your eyes can also reveal obvious clues. Indeed, your little visual inspection will allow you to notice or not cracks on the shell of your egg. Cracks or even powder may appear when the egg is expired. The presence of bacteria can be visible to the naked eye and even to the touch if you notice a viscosity.
To be sure, breaking the egg may be a last resort. If you do this, you will probably notice a change in color to blue, pink, green or black.
– Listen to your egg
This is probably the most surprising tip. This little-known technique allows you to identify an expired egg in one easy motion. The process is simple. Just shake the egg close to your ear. If it makes an internal noise, a spluttering sound or a sound that sounds like the egg moving inside the shell, it means your egg should not be eaten. If, on the other hand, no suspicious sound is detected, you can start your egg recipe with peace of mind.
Some of these tips are well known, others are unusual. But obviously, they allow you to check the freshness of your eggs so that you can consume them safely.
