Ways to ensure your eggs are fresh and safe to eat

Egg freshness should not be overlooked. Stale eggs can ruin the taste of dishes and even cause serious health issues, such as food poisoning. Fortunately, several simple methods can help you quickly and effectively determine if an egg is safe.

The first and most commonly recommended method is the water test. To perform it, you only need a container of cold water. Gently place the egg in the water and observe its behavior. If the egg sinks to the bottom and stays there, you can be confident it is fresh. Eggs that begin to float to the surface indicate that air has entered them, meaning they are older and not fresh.

This method is incredibly simple and quickly assesses an egg's condition without cracking it open. It can also be used at home, a market, or a grocery store.

Another method is the light test, which involves using a flashlight. To conduct this test, enter a dark room, shine the flashlight on the egg, and examine it carefully. If you see a firm yolk and no air bubbles, you can be almost certain the egg is fresh.

Similar to the water test, the advantage of this method is that it assesses an egg's condition without cracking it open. This allows for longer storage and future use of eggs. The light test is especially useful when you want to check a larger number of eggs, thus avoiding food waste.

Pay attention to its smell and appearance if you've decided to crack an egg. A fresh egg will have a neutral odor, firm whites that adhere to the yolk, and a high, round yolk. If the whites are watery or the egg smells unpleasant, it's best to discard it immediately. A spoiled egg has a distinctive, intense sulfur smell that is easily recognizable. Additionally, if the recently purchased eggs have cracked shells, it's best to use them immediately or dispose of them.

You can also check an egg's freshness by shaking it. This is a quick method, and it is possible even during shopping. Hold the egg in your hand and shake it gently. A fresh egg shouldn't make any noise. If you hear sloshing, the egg is old and may not be fresh.

A soft eggshell also signals that the egg might have been improperly stored or the hen had an unbalanced diet. An egg well-stored and laid by a healthy hen will have a hard, sturdy shell.

What nutritional values do fresh eggs have?

Fresh eggs not only guarantee better-tasting dishes but are also rich in nutrients. They are a source of easily digestible protein, vitamins A, E, D, K, and B vitamins, and minerals like iron, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.