How long can you leave eggs outwithout putting in ice box?

It's not recommended to leave eggs out of the refrigerator for an extended period, especially at room temperature. Here's why:

Food Safety:

* Bacteria Growth: Bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature, and eggs are a perfect breeding ground. This can lead to foodborne illnesses like salmonella.

* Quality Degradation: The yolk and white of the egg can start to break down, affecting the texture and flavor.

General Rule of Thumb:

* 2 hours at room temperature (70°F or 21°C) or less. This is considered the safe limit before the risk of bacterial growth increases significantly.

* 90 minutes at temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Exceptions:

* Refrigerated eggs can be left out for a short time (less than 2 hours) if they are part of a recipe that will be cooked thoroughly. This includes baking, frying, and scrambling.

* Eggs can be stored at room temperature for several weeks if they are preserved by pickling, salting, or drying. These methods inhibit bacterial growth.

Important Notes:

* Wash eggs before storing in the refrigerator. Washing removes bacteria on the surface and helps to prevent contamination.

* Store eggs in the coldest part of the refrigerator.

* Check the expiration date on the carton. Eggs should be used within 3-5 weeks of purchase.

To be safe, it's always best to keep eggs in the refrigerator at all times unless they are being used in a recipe that will be cooked thoroughly.