Canada
Eggs show up in so many meals, but their shelf life can feel confusing. How long do eggs last in the fridge? What about cracked eggs, hard-boiled eggs, or eggs left on the counter? Small storage choices can change how long eggs stay safe and good to eat.
In this blog, we will explain how long eggs last in the fridge across different types, including fresh, cracked, and boiled eggs. We'll also show you the clear signs of egg freshness, helping you understand when eggs are still good and when they should be discarded. Let’s start!
Do Eggs Need to Be Refrigerated?
The answer depends on whether the eggs have been washed. Unwashed eggs still have their natural protective coating, which seals the shell’s pores and helps block bacteria. Because of this barrier, unwashed eggs can be safely kept at room temperature for weeks without spoiling.
Once eggs are washed, that protective layer is removed. This opens the shell’s pores and makes it easier for bacteria to enter, so washed eggs must be stored in the refrigerator to stay safe. Even though people handle eggs differently around the world, the rule is consistent: unwashed eggs can be stored unrefrigerated, but washed eggs must always be refrigerated.
How Long Do Eggs Last in the Refrigerator?
Can eggs go bad in the fridge? Yes, they can, but proper storage greatly extends their shelf life. When kept refrigerated in their shells, raw eggs typically last about three to five weeks from the time of purchase. Keeping eggs consistently cold helps slow bacterial growth and maintain quality.
Cracked eggs have a much shorter shelf life because bacteria can enter through the broken shell. If an egg cracks before use, transfer it to a clean, airtight container, refrigerate it immediately, and use it within two days. Eggs that crack during boiling are still safe to eat, as long as they are fully cooked.
How Long Can a Boiled Egg Last in the Fridge?
Boiling eggs actually reduces their storage time compared to raw eggs. Cooking weakens the shell, making boiled eggs more vulnerable to bacteria, even when refrigerated. So, how long do hard boiled eggs last in fridge? They are generally safe to eat for up to one week, whether they are peeled or unpeeled, as long as they are kept refrigerated.
How Long Are Eggs Good for out of Fridge?
Can eggs be left out of refrigerator? Unwashed eggs can stay safe outside of the refrigerator. In general, unwashed eggs last about two weeks at room temperature. This is because the natural protective coating on the shell helps block bacteria and slow moisture loss. Once eggs are washed, they can only last for 1-2 weeks.
Here is a comparison of egg types and how long they last.
| Egg Type | Storage Location | How Long They Last |
|---|---|---|
| Raw eggs in shell | Refrigerator | 3 to 5 weeks from purchase |
| Cracked raw eggs | Refrigerator | Up to 2 days |
| Hard boiled eggs in shell | Refrigerator | Up to 7 days |
| Hard boiled eggs peeled | Refrigerator | Up to 7 days |
| Washed raw eggs | Out of fridge | 1-2 weeks |
| Unwashed raw eggs | Out of fridge | About 2 weeks |
What Is the Best Way to Store Eggs?
The best method depends on whether eggs are kept outside or inside the refrigerator.
Outside the refrigerator
- Only store unwashed eggs at room temperature
- Gently brush off dirt or debris with a dry cloth instead of washing
- Keep eggs in a cool, dry place with stable temperature
- Store away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and the stove
- A pantry or cupboard in a cooler part of the home works well
- Wash eggs with warm water only right before use
Inside the refrigerator
- Refrigerate eggs at 4°C or lower
- Keep eggs in their original carton to protect them from odours
- Store on an inside shelf rather than the door for steady temperature
- Keep eggs away from strong-smelling foods
Can You Freeze Eggs to Make Them Last Longer?
Yes, freezing eggs is a good way to extend their shelf life, but they should never be frozen in their shells. Whole eggs must be cracked first, then lightly beaten before freezing. You can also freeze egg whites and yolks separately, depending on how you plan to use them later. When stored at -18°C or colder, raw egg whites and yolks can last in the freezer for up to one year.
How Can You Tell If an Egg Is Still Good?
There are a few simple ways to check if an egg is still good.
- Float test: Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks, it is still good. If it floats, it is older and may not be fresh, though floating alone does not always mean it is spoiled.
- Crack and inspect: Crack the egg into a bowl. Check the egg white and yolk for anything unusual. If you notice strange colours such as pink, green, or an iridescent sheen, this can be a sign of bacterial contamination, and the egg should be discarded immediately.
- Smell test: If the egg gives off a strong sulfur or rotten smell, discard it immediately. A bad odour is the clearest sign an egg is no longer safe to eat.
Conclusion
How long do eggs last in the fridge? In general, raw eggs can last about 3–5 weeks when the temperature stays consistent. Boiled eggs and cracked eggs go off sooner, so it helps to keep them covered, clean, and stored away from the door, where temperatures change more often.
A fridge with stable cooling makes egg storage easier to manage. For example, a Midea refrigerator includes an expandable egg tray that keeps eggs in one spot, so they stay protected and don’t roll around. With simple storage habits, it becomes much easier to track freshness and know when it’s time to toss them.
FAQs
How long do farm fresh eggs last in the refrigerator?
Unwashed farm fresh eggs typically last up to three months when kept cold. Washed eggs need refrigeration right away and usually remain safe to use for about two months. For best results, store them in a consistently cool part of the fridge below 4°C.
How long can egg yolks last in the fridge?
Egg yolks can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days when kept in an airtight container. To prevent them from drying out, cover the yolks with a small amount of cold water and drain it off before use. If you need to store them longer than a few days, freezing is a better option, but they should be lightly beaten with a pinch of salt or sugar first to maintain a usable texture.
How long can egg whites last in the fridge?
Egg whites can last in the refrigerator for about 2 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container after separating them from the yolks. Carton egg whites usually keep longer, but once opened, they should be used within 7 days. For best quality, store egg whites in the coldest part of the fridge, not the door, where temperatures fluctuate more often.
Should you wash eggs before putting them in the fridge?
The answer depends on personal beliefs and state regulations. Some states require eggs to be washed before sale because uncleaned eggs may contain Salmonella. However, washing is not always needed, and unwashed eggs can remain fresh for several weeks without refrigeration.
Can I eat eggs that are 3 months old?
Only eggs stored in the freezer (−18°C or colder) and in the right form, such as beaten whole eggs, whites, or yolks, are recommended, as they can last up to 1 year if stored properly. Eating eggs that are 3 months old is usually not recommended if they have been stored raw in the refrigerator. Fresh shell eggs typically stay safe for about 3 to 5 weeks beyond the pack date, which is much shorter than three months.