If you're looking for a reliable source of protein, egg is a great option. However, when you're at the grocery store and have dozens of eggs to choose from, how do you know you're getting fresh ones? One of the most important things to look at is the best by date on the carton. This date indicates the last day the eggs are guaranteed to be at their peak quality.
Before buying eggs, there are a few factors to consider besides the best by date. First, check for cracks or broken shells. These can allow bacteria to enter and spoil the eggs faster. Next, check the egg carton for any signs of dirt or stains, as this could also indicate potential bacteria. Lastly, make sure to store the eggs properly once you bring them home, ideally in the refrigerator at or below 40°F.
If you're still not convinced of the importance of the best by date on eggs, ask yourself the following questions: How long have these eggs been sitting on the shelf? How do I know they were stored at the right temperature before being put on the shelf? Is it worth risking a case of salmonella for the sake of saving a few cents? By choosing eggs with a fresh best by date, you can ensure that you're getting high-quality, safe-to-eat eggs for all your cooking and baking needs.
10 Best By Date On Eggs
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The product is ideal for labeling and dating eggs in a safe and hygienic way.
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2
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Ideal for stamping dates and text on egg cartons or other small items with a compact, self-inking design.
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3
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This product is ideal for holding and transporting eggs in an eco-friendly way with the ability to split the carton into half dozens.
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4
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The product is ideal for stamping designs onto crafting projects.
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5
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Ideal for long-term food storage and emergency preparedness due to its long shelf life and ease of use.
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6
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It is ideal for stamping the expiration date of eggs on calendars or other crafting projects.
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7
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The product is ideal for cooking eggs in various styles with an auto shut-off feature for added safety.
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8
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The product is ideal for labeling farm fresh eggs with a self-inking rubber stamp.
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9
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Ideal for baking and outdoor meal preparations, gluten-free, and convenient for breakfast or camping.
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10
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The product is ideal for labeling and dating eggs with safe ink.
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1. Egg Dater Kit – Includes 3mm Rubber Date Stamp And Ink Pad Containing Egg Safe Ink – Black
The Egg Dater Pack is a must-have for anyone looking to date their eggs accurately. This pack includes a 3mm mini rubber dater stamp and pre-inked black FOOD/EGG safe ink, ensuring that your eggs are properly labeled with the necessary information. It is important to use food safe ink on eggs as the shells are permeable.
The ink pad provided in this pack will last for thousands of dates, and replacement pads are readily available when needed. To order a black replacement pad, use Amazon Ref: B074DY12KT. For a red replacement pad, use Amazon Ref: B073TZK2Y2.
This pack comes with a Certificate of Conformity, which can be emailed to you upon request. With this Egg Dater Pack, you can be sure that your eggs are properly labeled and safe for consumption. Order yours today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with accurate egg labeling.
2. Laid On (Date) – Egg Box – Self Inking Stamp – 1 1/2" X 1 7/8"
The Egg Box Stamp is the perfect tool for those who want to add a personal touch to their freshly laid eggs. With its self-inking design, this stamp is convenient and easy to use. It comes supplied with black ink, allowing for clear and crisp impressions.
This stamp is designed to last, with the ability to provide thousands of impressions before requiring re-inking. It is an ideal gift for anyone who sells their own eggs, or for those who want to add a touch of personality to their egg cartons.
For best results when stamping, it is recommended to place the carton on a flat surface if stamping on the inside of the box. When stamping on the outside of the carton, placing the lid over a square block will provide a rigid stamping surface.
3. Eco-Split Egg Cartons + Labels (15-Pack)
Introducing the Split Apart Egg Cartons, the perfect solution for your egg storage needs! These sustainable chicken egg cartons are made from 100% recyclable pulp fiber, making them an eco-friendly alternative to foam and plastic egg cartons.
Designed with convenience in mind, these paper egg cartons can be split apart into half-sized cartons, allowing for easy storage and transportation. They can fit eggs sized small, medium, large, extra large, and jumbo (approximately 42 – 63g), making them suitable for a variety of egg types such as chicken, duck, organic, and cage free.
The clamshell closure on these egg cartons ensures that your eggs are kept securely in place. The funnel-shaped structures in the middle of the split apart cartons provide support for the eggs, preventing them from breaking or cracking. The deep carton cups cradle the eggs, keeping them in place during transit. These sturdy and durable cartons are also easily stackable, saving you valuable storage space and making them ideal for use in farmers markets, grocery stores, delis, and more.
Not just for eggs, these versatile cartons have a variety of uses. They can be used to store and organize small tools and automotive parts such as screws, nuts, and bolts. They are also perfect for packaging bathroom accessories like handmade candles and bath bombs. These cartons are even great for colored eggs or chocolate eggs on Easter, and for art and craft projects.
In addition to their versatility, these egg cartons are also eco-friendly. They are 100% recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable, making them a sustainable choice for packaging. You can even use them as an easy seed tray to germinate your seedlings, or chop and shred them to create compost for your garden.
This value pack comes with 15 one dozen egg cartons, holding a total of 180 eggs. Each carton can hold eggs sized small to extra large, providing you with ample storage space. Additionally, the pack includes 30 complimentary labels with room to write the sell by or expiration date, ensuring that your eggs are always fresh. The carton measures approximately 12" Length x 4" Width x 3" Height, making it a perfect fit for your egg storage needs. Choose the Split Apart Egg Cartons for an eco-friendly, versatile, and convenient storage solution!
4. Laid On Date Farm Fresh Eggs Chicken Square Rubber Stamp For Stamping Crafting – 1.25in Small
The Charming Rubber Stamp is a small yet impressive tool that can add character to any project. The stamp is designed with deeply etched rubber that ensures excellent clarity in every impression. The handle of the stamp is made with a foam layer that provides cushioning, making the stamping process a breeze. The longest side of the stamp design determines the size of the stamp as listed on the product.
The wood handle of the Charming Rubber Stamp features the Sniggle Sloth mascot, and the stamp design is on the top for easy identification. The handle is contoured on two sides, providing a comfortable grip while in use. This feature makes it easier to control the stamp and achieve the desired impression.
The Charming Rubber Stamp is perfect for DIY enthusiasts. It can be used to decorate various items, including cards, gift wrap, journals, planners, paper, clay, fabric, and more. This delightful rubber stamp can be used alone or in combination with other Sniggle Sloth stamps to create fun borders, wreaths, and other designs. The creative possibilities are endless, and only your imagination can limit them.
The Charming Rubber Stamp is made with top-quality materials that are sourced from leading companies in the USA. You can use traditional stamp ink pads, acrylic or watercolor paints, and more with this stamp. It is easy to clean with a wet cloth, making it a convenient tool to maintain.
The Charming Rubber Stamp is proudly made in the USA. The materials used in making this stamp are sourced from top US companies and assembled in the Sniggle Sloth California facility. Therefore, you can be assured of a high-quality product that you will cherish for years to come.
5. Augason Farms Dried Whole Egg Product 2 Lbs 1 Oz ( Pack Of 1)
This product offers a total of 72 servings of food, with a whopping 5,760 calories in total. It is an ideal choice for a variety of purposes, including emergency preparedness, camping trips, and everyday use. The food is certified gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
One of the biggest advantages of this product is its impressive shelf life. With a lifespan of up to 10 years, it provides you with peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable source of food in case of an emergency. Whether you're preparing for a natural disaster or simply stocking up your pantry, this product is an excellent choice.
The 72 servings of food included in this package are carefully selected to provide you with a range of delicious and nutritious options. You'll find a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as snacks and desserts. Each serving is conveniently packaged and easy to prepare, so you can enjoy a hot and satisfying meal in no time.
6. Egg Laid Expiration Date Calendar Square Rubber Stamp For Stamping Crafting – 1.75in Medium
The Charming Rubber Stamp is a small yet mighty product that packs a punch in terms of character and clarity. With deeply etched rubber, this stamp ensures excellent clarity in your designs. The handle of the stamp features the Sniggle Sloth mascot and the stamp design on the top, making it easy to identify. Plus, the wood handle is contoured on two sides to provide a comfortable grip.
This stamp is perfect for those who love to indulge in DIY crafts. It's not just restricted to paper crafts, but can also be used on clay, fabric, and more. The creative possibilities are endless – use it alone or combine it with other Sniggle Sloth stamps to create fun borders, wreaths, and other designs. The sizes listed refer to the longest side of the stamp design, allowing you to choose the perfect one for your project.
The Charming Rubber Stamp is made of top-quality materials sourced from US companies and assembled in the Sniggle Sloth California facility. You can use this stamp with traditional stamp ink pads, acrylic or watercolor paints, and more. It's also easy to clean with just a wet cloth, making it a hassle-free product to use.
7. Eggcellent Quick Cooker: Aqua With Auto Shut Off
The Dash Rapid Egg Cooker is a highly reliable and trusted kitchen appliance that guarantees perfect eggs every time. With its six egg capacity, it can cook soft, medium, or hard boiled eggs to your desired level of firmness. This amazing egg cooker saves time and water while producing consistently perfect eggs with shells that are easy to peel. Cleaning up is also a breeze.
This versatile appliance is perfect for picky eaters, large families, or those who have busy schedules. It can cook hard boiled eggs, soft boiled eggs, poached eggs, scrambled eggs, and individual omelets, all within minutes of the push start button. It couldn't be easier to use.
The Dash Rapid Egg Cooker is compact and lightweight, weighing only 1lb. It is a must-have for first apartments, smaller kitchens, college dorms, or camper/RV traveling. Its sleek design and trendy color options will accent any kitchen space, and all included accessories fit inside, taking up even less space.
The Dash Rapid Egg Cooker comes with all the necessary accessories, including a poaching tray, omelet tray, 6 egg holder tray, measuring cup, recipe book, and recipe database access. All non-electric parts are dishwasher safe, making cleaning up a breeze.
8. Farm-Inked Fresh Egg Stamper
Introducing the Self-Inking Rubber Stamp – a high-quality stamp that is perfect for DIY projects and personalizing various items. The stamped image measures approximately 1.5" x 1.5" (38mm X 38mm) and features deeply etched rubber that ensures excellent clarity.
The stamp comes equipped with its own ink pad in the color listed, making it an all-in-one solution that is convenient and fun to use. The design is located on top of the stamp for easy identification, allowing for a hassle-free stamping experience.
Take a moment to slow down and enjoy the art of stamping. This stamp can be used for a variety of projects including stamping paper, folders, cards, gift wrap, journals, planners, and more. Use it alone or combine it with other Sniggle Sloth stamps to create unique designs that will impress your friends and family.
Crafted from sturdy plastic, this stamp is built to last. The ink pad can be easily removed and re-inked, ensuring the stamp's usefulness for years to come. It is sold individually, making it a perfect addition to any stamp collection.
Rest assured that this stamp is made with the highest quality materials. The components are sourced from top US companies and assembled in our Sniggle Sloth California facility to form a product that you can cherish for years.
9. Gluten-Free Camp Breakfast: Judee's Egg Powder
Judee’s Powdered Eggs offers a convenient and delicious solution for busy mornings and home-cooked meals with their Gluten Free Egg Powder. This product is perfect for those who crave fluffy omelets or tasty baked treats, but don't have the time to prepare them from scratch.
The dried egg mix is simple and easy to use, requiring only 2.5 tablespoons of water and 2 tablespoons of egg powder to create a fluffy omelet. It can also be used as an egg substitute for backpacking or home-cooked meals that require eggs. With this product, you can enjoy the goodness of eggs in every bite.
Judee’s Powdered Eggs is made in a dedicated gluten-free facility, ensuring that you are getting the best ingredients that are both delicious and safe for those with gluten sensitivities. The product contains no GMO or preservatives, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
This powdered whole egg comes in an 11 oz standup, resealable pouch that keeps it fresh and ready to use whenever you need it. The quantity is more than enough for baking needs, so you can always be confident in your ability to whip up delicious treats.
At Judee's, they believe that the most delicious baking starts with quality ingredients. Since 2009, they have been providing great-tasting products crafted with a sprinkle of love in every packet. With Judee’s Powdered Eggs, you can be confident in your ability to create delicious and nutritious meals from scratch.
10. Egg Dater Kit – Includes 3mm Rubber Date Stamp And Ink Pad Containing Egg Safe Ink – Red
The Egg Dater Pack is a convenient solution for those who want to ensure that their eggs are properly dated. It includes a 3mm mini rubber dater stamp and pre-inked food/egg safe ink in red. The ink used in this pack is specifically designed to be used on eggs, as eggshells are permeable and require a special ink that is safe for consumption.
With the pre-inked ink pad, you can easily date thousands of eggs without worrying about running out of ink. And when it's time to replace the ink pad, you can easily do so by using the replacement pads available on Amazon. The black pad can be found using Amazon Ref: B074DY12KT, while the red pad can be found using Amazon Ref: B073TZK2Y2.
This Egg Dater Pack is a great investment for those who want to ensure that their eggs are fresh and properly dated. The pack comes with a certificate of conformity which can be emailed upon request, giving you peace of mind that the product meets the required standards. Overall, this pack is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep track of their egg inventory.
Best By Date On Eggs FAQs
Are there any health risks associated with consuming eggs past their "best by" date?
Consuming eggs past their "best by" date may pose some health risks for some individuals. As eggs age, they lose quality, and their risk of containing harmful bacteria such as salmonella increases. This bacteria can cause foodborne illness, which can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
However, it is important to note that the "best by" date on an egg carton is not the same as an expiration date. Eggs can still be safely consumed for some time after the "best by" date as long as they have been stored properly and show no signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or abnormal texture.
To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, it is recommended to store eggs in the refrigerator at or below 40°F and cook them until both the yolk and white are firm. Individuals who are pregnant, elderly, or have weakened immune systems should take extra caution when consuming eggs past their "best by" date and may consider avoiding them altogether.
Can you freeze eggs to extend their shelf life?
Yes, you can freeze eggs to extend their shelf life. However, it is important to note that only raw eggs should be frozen and not the ones that have already been cooked. When freezing raw eggs, start by cracking them into a bowl and gently whisking them until the yolks and whites are fully mixed. You can add a pinch of salt or sugar if you like, but it is not necessary. Then, pour the egg mixture into an airtight container or ice cube tray and freeze. When you want to use the eggs, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and use them as you normally would. It is important to note that frozen eggs may not have the same texture as fresh eggs and are best used in recipes that require them to be cooked, such as scrambled eggs, omelets, and baked goods. Additionally, frozen eggs should be used within 6 months for best quality.
Can you still cook with eggs that have passed the "best by" date?
The "best by" date on eggs is not an expiration date, but rather a suggestion of when the eggs will be at their best quality. Generally, eggs are safe to eat for a few weeks after the "best by" date as long as they have been stored properly and there are no visible cracks or signs of spoilage. However, cooking with older eggs may result in some changes in texture and flavor. For example, older eggs may have a thinner white and a less firm yolk. It's important to use your senses when determining whether an egg is still good to use. If the egg has an off odor, unusual texture, or appears discolored, it's best to discard it. Ultimately, it's recommended to err on the side of caution and use fresh eggs for optimal quality and safety in cooking.
How can you properly store eggs to maximize their freshness and shelf life?
Eggs are a staple ingredient in many households, but it's important to store them properly in order to maximize their freshness and shelf life. Here are some tips for storing eggs:
1. Keep them in their original carton: The carton helps protect the eggs from damage and also keeps them from absorbing any strong odors in your fridge.
2. Store them in the refrigerator: Eggs should always be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in the main body of the fridge rather than the door where the temperature can fluctuate.
3. Keep them away from strong smells: Eggs can easily absorb strong odors, so it's best to keep them away from any strong-smelling foods like onions or garlic.
4. Don't wash them until you're ready to use them: Washing eggs can remove the protective coating on the shell, making them more susceptible to bacteria and spoilage.
5. Check for freshness before cooking: Before using eggs, it's always a good idea to do the float test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg in the water. If it sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it's fresh. If it stands upright or floats to the top, it's past its prime and should be discarded.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your eggs stay fresh and safe to use for as long as possible.
How can you tell if an egg is still fresh and safe to eat?
Eggs are a staple in many households, but it's important to know if they're still fresh and safe to eat. The best way to tell if an egg is fresh is to do a float test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg in it. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat on its side, it's still fresh. If it stands up on one end at the bottom of the bowl or floats to the surface, it's not fresh.
You can also check the date on the carton, but keep in mind that the sell-by date is not the same as the expiration date. Eggs can still be safe to eat for a few weeks after the sell-by date as long as they have been stored properly in the refrigerator.
Another way to tell if an egg is still fresh is by cracking it open and examining the yolk and white. Fresh eggs will have a firm yolk and thick white that doesn't spread out much. Older eggs will have a flatter yolk and thinner white that spreads out more. If the egg smells bad or has a cloudy appearance, it's best to throw it out and not risk getting sick.
How long can you safely consume eggs after the "best by" date?
The "best by" date on egg cartons is an indication of when the eggs are at their highest quality. However, it does not necessarily mean that the eggs are no longer safe to consume after that date. According to the USDA, eggs can still be safely consumed 3-5 weeks after the "best by" date as long as they have been stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F.
To determine if an egg is still safe to eat, you can perform a simple test. Fill a bowl with cold water and gently place the egg in the water. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it is still fresh and safe to eat. If it sinks but stands up on one end or floats to the top, it is no longer fresh and should be discarded.
It's important to note that if an egg has a foul odor or unusual appearance, it should not be consumed regardless of the date. When in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
Is it safe to eat eggs that have been stored at room temperature?
It is not recommended to eat eggs that have been stored at room temperature for a long period of time. Raw eggs can harbor bacteria such as Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illness. When eggs are stored at room temperature, the risk of bacterial growth increases, especially if they are not consumed within a few days.
To ensure the safety of eggs, it is recommended to store them in the refrigerator, at a temperature of 40°F or below. This helps to slow down bacterial growth and prolong the freshness of the eggs. It is also important to handle eggs properly, such as washing your hands before and after handling them, and avoiding cross-contamination with other foods.
If you are unsure about the safety of eggs, you can perform a simple test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg inside. If it sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it is fresh. If it stands upright or floats, it may not be safe to eat and should be discarded.
What does the "best by" date on eggs actually mean?
The "best by" date on eggs refers to the date until which the eggs are guaranteed to be at their best quality. It is not an expiration date or a safety date, but a recommendation from the manufacturer indicating when the eggs are at their peak freshness. After the "best by" date, the quality of the eggs may start to decline, and they may lose some of their freshness, texture, and flavor. However, it doesn't mean that the eggs are no longer safe to eat. If the eggs have been stored properly and do not show any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or a cracked shell, they can still be consumed past the "best by" date. It is always important to use your senses to determine if the eggs are still good to eat, and to follow safe food handling practices to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
What factors can affect the shelf life of eggs?
Several factors can affect the shelf life of eggs, including storage temperature, humidity, and handling practices. Eggs should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth. If eggs are stored at room temperature, they can quickly spoil and become unsafe to eat.
Humidity can also affect the shelf life of eggs. Eggs should be stored in a dry place, as moisture can cause the eggshell to degrade and bacteria to grow. It is also important to handle eggs carefully to prevent cracking, as cracked eggs can spoil more quickly.
The age of the egg can also affect its shelf life. Fresh eggs have a longer shelf life than older eggs. It is recommended to consume eggs within three to five weeks of their packing date to ensure freshness.
Overall, proper storage and handling practices, including refrigeration, dry storage, and careful handling, are essential to maintain the quality and safety of eggs and extend their shelf life.
What happens if you eat eggs that have gone bad?
If you eat eggs that have gone bad, you may experience food poisoning. This is because eggs can carry harmful bacteria such as salmonella. Symptoms of food poisoning from bad eggs can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. In severe cases, it can even lead to hospitalization or death.
To avoid eating bad eggs, it is important to always check the expiration date on the carton before purchasing and consuming them. You can also perform a simple test to see if an egg is still fresh by placing it in a bowl of water. If it sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it is still fresh. If it floats to the top or stands on one end, it has gone bad and should be discarded.
It is also important to store eggs properly in the refrigerator, as this can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Eggs should be kept in their original carton and stored on a shelf, rather than in the door where the temperature can fluctuate. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you are always eating fresh, safe eggs.