Quck answer
Storing eggs properly is essential to maintain their freshness and quality. Here are some tips to store eggs correctly:
1. Refrigerate: Eggs should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent the growth of bacteria.
2. Store in the carton: Keep eggs in their original carton to protect them from absorbing odors and flavors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Pointy end down: Store eggs with the pointy end down to help maintain their freshness and prevent the yolk from moving away from the center.
4. Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not freeze eggs as it can cause the shells to crack. Similarly, avoid exposing them to high temperatures, such as leaving them on the counter for too long.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your eggs stay fresh and safe to consume for a longer period.
After realizing that we’ve been storing butter incorrectly, we became curious about other foods. Specifically, we wondered if we’ve been storing eggs incorrectly by keeping them in the refrigerator. This led us to question the European practice of storing eggs at room temperature.
In order to find out how eggs should be stored in the United States, we consulted food safety experts and dietitians.
April Rivas, a certified food safety instructor and owner of ATC Food Safety, explains that commercially produced eggs in the U.S. have different standards compared to European eggs. According to Rivas, eggs in the U.S. undergo a washing process mandated by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). This washing removes the egg’s protective coating, known as the ‘bloom’. Therefore, for safety reasons, commercially purchased eggs in the U.S. should be refrigerated.
Isabel Maples, a nutritionist and registered dietitian from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, adds that eggs in the United States are washed after being collected to eliminate potential salmonella bacteria, which can cause diseases. However, this washing also removes the egg’s natural protective barrier, making it more susceptible to bacteria if left unrefrigerated.
Amy C. Keating, a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and program leader at Consumer Reports, advises refrigerating eggs to prevent bacterial growth. She mentions that cold eggs can sweat at room temperature, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. To minimize the risk of salmonella-related illnesses, Keating suggests thoroughly cooking eggs before consumption.
If you’re wondering what to do when a recipe calls for room temperature eggs, Maples recommends leaving the eggs out for a maximum of two hours before using them in baking.
Lastly, Maples emphasizes the importance of keeping eggs in their original carton, refraining from washing them at home (as this can spread salmonella), and ensuring that they are refrigerated below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
