How do you tell if an egg is rotten without breaking it?

You can't be 100% certain an egg is rotten without breaking it, but here are some methods to help you determine if it's likely:

1. The Float Test:

* Fill a bowl with cold water.

* Gently place the egg in the water.

* If the egg sinks to the bottom and lies flat, it's likely fresh.

* If the egg floats, it's probably rotten. This is because the air sac inside the egg gets bigger as the egg ages, making it less dense.

2. The Smell Test:

* Hold the egg up to your nose.

* If you smell anything foul, like sulfur or ammonia, the egg is rotten.

3. The Shake Test:

* Gently shake the egg.

* If you hear sloshing, the egg is likely rotten. This is because the yolk breaks down and mixes with the white as the egg ages.

Important Notes:

* These tests are not foolproof. Even if an egg passes these tests, it might still be spoiled.

* If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw the egg away.

Other factors to consider:

* The age of the egg: Eggs generally last for about 3-5 weeks in the refrigerator.

* Storage conditions: Keep eggs in the refrigerator and away from strong odors.

If you want to be absolutely sure, crack the egg open and check for any off-putting smell or discoloration.