How to Test if an Egg Has Gone Bad at Home

Eggs are a common part of many people’s daily diet. Packed with various nutrients, eggs are a beneficial food for individuals ranging from children to the elderly. Instead of buying one or two eggs daily, many prefer to purchase a crate or more at once to last several days or even a month, as it is more affordable and convenient. However, eggs can spoil when stored at home, especially during hot weather, which increases the risk of faster spoilage. Consuming spoiled eggs not only diminishes nutritional benefits but can also cause health issues.

While eggs can be tested in a laboratory to determine their edibility, this is not always feasible for everyone. Fortunately, there are simple home methods to check if eggs are fresh. Fill a glass or a slightly deep bowl with water and gently place the egg in it. If the egg lies flat or sinks horizontally, it is fresh. However, if the egg stands upright or floats, it may be old or spoiled.

Another way to check is by shaking the egg. Hold it close to your ear and shake it slowly. If no sound is heard, the egg is fresh. Hearing any noise inside may indicate spoilage. This method allows you to test the egg without cracking it open. Alternatively, you can also assess the egg’s quality by cracking it into a bowl. Observe the internal parts: the white and the yolk should be distinctly separated. The yolk should appear round and well-defined in the center of the white. If the egg white is thin and the yolk is flattened and spread out, the egg is likely quite old.

Smell is also a reliable indicator of an egg’s freshness. A bad egg emits a foul, rotten odor, similar to spoiled food. It is best to avoid using such eggs. To prevent eggs from spoiling in warm weather, storing them in the refrigerator is recommended. When kept at an appropriate temperature in the fridge, eggs can generally last from three to five weeks. For optimal nutritional benefits, it is advisable to consume eggs as soon as possible after purchase.