Eggs are one of the most nutritious and versatile foods in our diet. But freshness makes all the difference, both in taste and safety. With just a few simple checks, you can easily tell if an egg is truly fresh.
1. CHECK THE DATE
Every carton shows either the laying date or an expiration date (usually 28 days after laying). The closer you are to the laying date, the fresher the egg.
2. THE WATER TEST
Fill a glass with cold water and gently place the egg inside:
- Fresh egg: sinks and lies flat at the bottom.
- Medium freshness: tilts upwards slightly.
- Old egg: floats to the top (because the air pocket inside has grown).
3. CRACK IT OPEN
- Fresh: the yolk is round, firm, and sits high; the white is thick and holds close around the yolk.
- Not so fresh: the yolk spreads easily and the white looks watery.
4. SMELL TEST
A fresh egg has no noticeable odor. Any strong or unpleasant smell is a sure sign it should not be eaten.
5. CHOOSE TRUSTED SOURCES
Whenever possible, buy eggs from reliable local farmers or producers. They are often fresher and taste better, too.
CONCLUSION
Eggs are a real treasure in the kitchen, from a simple breakfast to gourmet recipes. By learning how to check them properly, you’ll always enjoy better flavor, nutrition, and food safety on your table.