How long can a chicken egg last without its mother?

A chicken egg can last for a surprisingly long time without its mother, but it depends on how you store it! Here's a breakdown:

Room Temperature:

* Unrefrigerated: A chicken egg can last for about 1-2 weeks at room temperature. However, the quality deteriorates quickly, and it becomes more likely to spoil and develop bacteria.

Refrigeration:

* Refrigerated: Properly refrigerated eggs can last for 3-5 weeks after they are laid. Refrigeration helps to slow down the deterioration process and keep the egg safe to eat.

Important Notes:

* Freshness: The "use by" date on an egg carton refers to the date after which the egg is no longer guaranteed to be fresh, not the date it will go bad.

* Storage: Always store eggs in their original carton with the pointed end down to preserve their freshness.

* Safety: If you are unsure about the age of an egg, it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

So, while a chicken egg can last for a while without its mother, proper storage is crucial for maintaining its quality and safety for consumption.