'Correct' way to store eggs confirmed after years of debate
There's been a long-standing debate about where to keep eggs with some people storing them in the fridge and others in a cupboard
There's been an age-old debate about the best place to store eggs. Some reckon the fridge is ideal, whilst others insist keeping them in a cupboard, drawer or even on the worktop helps maintain their freshness for longer.
But according to food experts, there's one crucial step you should take with your eggs, involving a common kitchen staple. When purchasing eggs, they're not kept in the chilled section at supermarkets, and there's a good reason behind this.
Eggs are displayed on shelves because buying them cold means the temperature change from the fridge to the shopping trolley creates problems. Subsequently, returning them to your fridge encourages condensation and promotes bacterial growth.
Food specialists at Modern Milkman revealed the ideal storage location for eggs after purchase is actually the fridge. Eggs can remain fresh for up to three to four weeks in the fridge before they start to deteriorate, reports the Daily Record.
The experts explained: "The storing of eggs in your fridge in their original packaging is the best way of keeping them extra fresh. This will keep them at a consistent temperature, staving off spoilage and slowing bacterial growth.
"A temperature of 4C or lower will ensure your eggs stay fresh and delicious. And keeping eggs in their original packaging will protect their pores from being infiltrated by their new, perhaps stronger-smelling neighbours in the fridge."
Keeping them in their original packaging also helps you remember their use-by date. Experts say the optimal spot is on a shelf inside the fridge rather than in the door.
"While many people prefer to have them in an easily and quickly accessible spot on the door, the temperature of this area fluctuates as you delve in and out of your fridge throughout the day," the experts noted.
However, if you've separated your yolk and egg white, you can still keep them fresh by storing them in the fridge. Simply beat the yolk and place it into an airtight container, where it can last for up to three days.
Egg whites should also be stored in your fridge in a sealable bag or an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to three months, provided they've not been frozen before - but in the fridge, they can last for up to two days.
The UK Government says: "Eggs are safe to eat for a couple of days after the best before date". The UK Food Standards Agency, on the other hand, advises against this, claiming "there is a greater chance of harmful bacteria growing in the eggs" after this date.