How do you tell when egg are old?

Here's how to tell if your eggs are old, along with some tips on storage:

Visual Inspection:

* Egg White: Hold the egg up to a light. A fresh egg will have a thick, clear white. An older egg will have a thinner, watery white, and may even have a "cloudy" appearance.

* Yolk: A fresh yolk will be round and firm. An older yolk will be flatter and may be more spread out.

* Air Cell: The air cell at the wide end of the egg will be small in a fresh egg and larger in an older egg.

Other Methods:

* Float Test: Place the egg in a bowl of cold water. A fresh egg will sink to the bottom and lay flat. An older egg will float or stand upright.

* Smell Test: A fresh egg has little to no odor. An older egg may have a strong, off-putting smell.

* Crack Test: Crack the egg into a bowl. A fresh egg will have a firm yolk and a thick white. An older egg may have a runny yolk and a thin white.

Storage:

* Refrigerate: Store eggs in their original carton in the refrigerator. The coldest part of the refrigerator is usually the best place.

* Don't Wash: Wash eggs only right before you use them. Washing removes the protective coating, which can make them spoil faster.

* Expiration Date: While the expiration date on the carton is a good guideline, it's not a guarantee. Use your senses to determine freshness.

General Rules of Thumb:

* Fresh eggs should last about 3-5 weeks in the refrigerator.

* Eggs that have been refrigerated for a long time can still be safe to eat, but they may have a less desirable taste and texture.

* If you're unsure about the freshness of an egg, it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Important Note: If you notice any of the following signs, discard the egg immediately:

* Cracked shell

* Mold on the shell

* Strong, foul odor

* Discolored yolk

Let me know if you have any other questions!