About Eggs

FAQ

Have questions about how to buy, store, handle and cook eggs? We have answers. Here are 10 of our most frequently asked questions. Still want to know more? Visit www.OhioEggs.com or www.IncredibleEgg.org.

How should eggs be stored?

Because eggs are perishable, they need to be kept refrigerated at 45 degrees Fahrenheit or below at all times. Eggs should be kept in the main section of the refrigerator, not in the door, because that’s the coldest area. Store eggs in their original carton. The carton keeps the eggs from picking up odors or flavors from other foods and helps prevent moisture loss. It also ensures they don’t spread bacteria to other food items or from one carton to the next.

How long are eggs safe to eat after purchase?

Raw shelled eggs are good for 4-5 weeks beyond the Julian date on the carton, and 2-3 weeks beyond the expiration date. Raw whole eggs that have been slightly beaten are good for up to two days. Raw egg whites are good for up to four days. Raw egg yolks are good for up to two days. Hard-boiled shelled eggs are good for up to one week, but, once they’ve been peeled, they must be eaten that day.

Can eggs be frozen?

Eggs can be frozen out of their shells. To freeze eggs, it’s best to use fresh eggs. Crack them and put them into an air-tight, freezer-safe container, and seal tightly. It’s also a good idea to label the package with the date.

Frozen eggs (whole, white or yolk) are good for up to one year. When ready to defrost, take them out of the freezer, and put them into the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

It’s not recommended to freeze eggs in their shells or hard-boiled eggs.

What does an egg’s grade mean?

Egg grading represents the egg’s interior quality and shell appearance. The USDA grade shield on the carton shows the eggs were graded for quality and checked for weight under supervision of a USDA grader. USDA grading is voluntary for egg farms, and those that choose to have their eggs graded pay for this service. Egg companies that do not use USDA’s grading service are monitored by state agencies, and those cartons will bear a term such as “Grade A” without the USDA shield.

There are a lot of egg choices at the grocery store. What are the differences?

All eggs are equally safe and nutritious; it’s up to the consumer to choose eggs that best fit their lifestyle.

• Conventional eggs are laid by hens living in cages with access to food, water and security.
• Organic eggs are laid by hens that are fed food from ingredients grown without most conventional pesticides or commercial fertilizers.
• Cage-free eggs are laid by hens that may roam in a building, room or open area.
• Free-range eggs are laid by hens with access to outdoors in accordance with weather, environmental or state laws.

What’s the difference between the “Julian date” and the “sell-by” or “use-by” date on an egg carton?

The Julian date is the date the eggs were properly washed, graded and packed. This three-digit code represents the consecutive day of the year, with January 1 as 001 and December 31 being 365. Although not required, egg cartons may also carry an expiration (sell-by) date and/or a best-by (use-by) date. Expiration dates are included on some egg cartons to ensure retailers do not keep eggs on shelves past a certain date. However, eggs can be safely eaten 2-3 weeks beyond the expiration date.

How long should eggs be cooked?

To prevent food-borne illness, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking eggs until the whites are firm and yolks are thickened. Cook egg-containing dishes to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Eggs should be brought to a high enough temperature to destroy any type of bacteria that might be present in the yolk or white.

How should I safely pack eggs when traveling?

When transporting eggs, whether it’s raw eggs, hard-boiled eggs or egg dishes (casseroles, deviled eggs, etc.), use ice or coolant in an insulated bag or cooler to keep cold foods cold (40° F/4°C or lower) and thermal containers to keep hot foods hot (140°F/60°C or higher). Once you’ve arrived at your final destination, eggs should be served or refrigerated immediately. If bringing eggs to picnics or outdoor events, keep them in a cooler in the shade until ready to eat. Discard hard-boiled eggs that have been left out for more than two hours.

Do eggs contain hormones?

Under federal law, neither laying hens nor any other type of poultry can be fed hormones. Some egg cartons may say the eggs are “hormone-free,” which is often a marketing ploy. The FDA requires a qualifying statement on the label for shell eggs, which is “Hormones are not used in the production of shell eggs.”

How often does a hen lay an egg?

Almost once a day. It takes a hen about 25 hours to lay an egg, and it takes a half hour to start forming another egg. According to the USDA, the average hen lays 286 eggs each year.