Tips for checking egg freshness

1. Look at the Date:

   • Check the expiration or "sell by" date on the egg carton. This date provides a guideline for the freshness of the eggs.

2. Check for Cracks:

   • Inspect each egg for cracks or any visible damage. Cracked eggs are more susceptible to bacteria and should be discarded.

3. Float Test:

   • Fill a bowl or glass with water and gently place an egg in it. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lay flat on their sides. Slightly older eggs will stand upright on the bottom, and stale eggs will float.

4. Candle the Egg:

   • Hold a flashlight or candle behind the egg in a dark room. A fresh egg will show a clear and well-defined yolk and white. As eggs age, the yolk becomes flatter and the white becomes thinner.

5. Check the Yolk and White:

   • Crack the egg onto a flat surface. A fresh egg will have a plump and rounded yolk with a thick white. As eggs age, the yolk flattens, and the white becomes thinner and more spread out.

6. Smell Test:

   • Gently sniff the egg. Fresh eggs should have a neutral or slightly earthy smell. If you detect a strong, unpleasant odor, the egg may be spoiled.

7. Listen to the Shake:

   • Hold the egg close to your ear and shake it gently. Fresh eggs will make little to no sound, while older eggs may produce a sloshing sound due to the thinner consistency of the egg white.

8. Check the Air Cell:

   • When candling the egg, observe the size of the air cell. As eggs age, the contents shrink, and the air cell enlarges. A very large air cell may indicate an older egg.

9. Shell Texture:

   • Feel the eggshell for texture. Fresh eggs have a smooth and slightly chalky texture. If the shell feels slimy or excessively smooth, it may indicate spoilage.

10. Egg White Consistency:

    • Crack the egg into a bowl and observe the consistency of the egg white. Fresh egg whites are thick and stay close to the yolk, while older eggs may have thinner whites that spread out more.

By using a combination of these methods, you can assess the freshness of eggs and make informed decisions about their use in cooking and baking. Always store eggs properly in the refrigerator to maintain their quality.

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