Yes, you can often eat eggs past their “expiration” or “sell by” date if they have been properly stored and pass freshness tests.
There’s a common kitchen moment: you reach for an egg carton, glance at the date, and a flicker of doubt crosses your mind. Eggs are such a staple, from a quick scramble to binding a delicate soufflé, and knowing their true freshness is key to both delicious cooking and safe eating.
Understanding Egg Dating: What Do Those Numbers Mean?
Egg cartons display various dates, each serving a distinct purpose. Understanding these labels helps you assess an egg’s true shelf life beyond a single number.
The “Sell By” or “Best By” date is primarily a guide for retailers to manage inventory and for consumers to purchase eggs at their peak quality. This date indicates when the store should no longer sell the eggs, not necessarily when they become unsafe to eat.
A less commonly understood but highly informative label is the “Julian Date” or “Pack Date.” This is a three-digit number, ranging from 001 (January 1st) to 365 (December 31st), representing the day the eggs were washed, graded, and packed. This date is your most accurate indicator of an egg’s age.
Can I Eat Eggs After Expiration Date?
