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How to Tell If Eggs Are Fresh
### **What to Look For:**
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* **Fresh egg** ➡️ Virtually no smell
* **Spoiled egg** ➡️ Strong, sulfur-like or rotten odor
🚫 **Tip:** If it smells even slightly off, don’t take chances — throw it out.
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## 👁️ **3. Visual Check: Look Before You Cook**
Fresh eggs have a distinct look when cracked.
### **What to Look For:**
* **Yolk:** Fresh yolks are **round and firm**, sitting high in the center.
* **Whites:** Should be **thick and slightly cloudy**, not watery or runny.
* **Spots:** A small blood spot is safe to eat, but mold or discoloration is not.
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## 📆 **4. Check the Date Label**
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Egg cartons usually include a **“Best By”** or **“Sell By”** date.
* Eggs are typically good for **3–5 weeks beyond the pack date**, if stored properly.
* Always store eggs in the **refrigerator** to maintain freshness longer.
🥚 **Pro Tip:** The “Julian date” (a 3-digit number on the carton) indicates the packing day of the year (e.g., 001 = Jan 1, 365 = Dec 31). Super fresh eggs are within 30 days of that number.
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## ❄️ **Bonus: How to Store Eggs Properly**
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To keep eggs fresh longer:
* Store them **pointy end down** in the carton.
* Keep them **in the fridge**, not in the door (it’s too warm).
* Don’t wash store-bought eggs — they have a natural coating (or added one) that protects them.
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## ✅ **Summary: How to Tell If Eggs Are Fresh**
| Method | What It Tells You |
| ———— | ———————————– |
| Float Test | Old vs. fresh without cracking |
| Sniff Test | If an egg is spoiled (once cracked) |
| Visual Check | Freshness based on yolk/white shape |
| Date Label | Shelf life estimate |
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## 🥄 **Conclusion**
Knowing how to tell if eggs are fresh is a simple skill that can **save money, reduce food waste, and keep your meals safe**. With just a bowl of water or a quick visual inspection, you’ll never have to second-guess your eggs again.
So next time you’re unsure about that lonely egg in the fridge, try the float test — your nose and stomach will thank you!
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Let me know if you’d like a printable cheat sheet or infographic version of this article for your blog or social media!
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