You’re reading this article because you want the answer to the big foodie questions. Should eggs be kept in the refrigerator? And how long does an egg last, anyway?
We’ve cracked the code for storing eggs in the best possible place, so here’s all you need to know.
Should eggs be stored in a fridge?
Yes, is the answer. According to the British Egg Information Service (yep, there’s such a thing), eggs should be kept in the fridge if you want them to stay fresh for longer. Most importantly – salmonella bacteria does not multiply in the fridge.
Here’s the scary science bit. Eggs need to stay at a cool and constant temperature or they can become unsafe to eat. This is because temperature changes can contribute to the growth of salmonella bacteria in eggs. Storing eggs at room temperature also allows the bacteria to multiply.
What’s the best place in the fridge for eggs?
The best place to store eggs is the main bit of the fridge - not the door. This is to reduce any changes in temperature. The optimal egg storage zone is typically the middle shelf, as it maintains the most consistent temperature.
Like we said, you should avoid storing eggs in the refrigerator door itself. It’s the place where temperature changes the most, caused by the door being opened and closed. So even if your fridge has got one of those cute and tempting egg racks in a shelf on your door, you should ignore it.
How do I store eggs in the fridge?
Okay, so you’ve picked the perfect place in your fridge. The next question is, how do you actually place your eggs there? Still in the carton? Here’s what you need to know.
There’s no need to take your eggs out of the box. In fact, please don’t. If you’ve got a fancy egg rack it can be tempting to put them on display, but the box is best. It protects and shields the egg from accidental damage, and also displays the best before date.
The main point though, is that keeping eggs in the box helps them stay fresher. Those tiny eggshell pores can let in unwanted stuff like bacteria or lingering food smells - and keeping them snug in their carton helps prevent this.
The benefits of storing eggs properly
Here’s a round-up of the key benefits of storing eggs on the middle shelf of your fridge:
1. Reduced odour absorption. Eggs are porous, so can absorb odours from other foods. If you treat the middle shelf of your fridge as a neutral zone, you reduce the risk of undesirable flavours going into your eggs.
2. Optimal humidity. Eggs benefit from a controlled humidity environment, and the middle shelf is usually better at maintaining the ideal moisture level than other areas in the fridge.
3. Consistent temperature. The middle shelf of a fridge tends to stay at a more consistent temperature than other areas (especially the fridge door or near the freezer). Remember, temperature fluctuations can have a serious impact on the quality and freshness of your eggs.
FAQs
Is it OK to store eggs at room temperature?
No. Because if the egg is contaminated with salmonella, storing it at room temperature allows the bacteria to multiply. Keep your eggs in the fridge, please.
Should I take eggs out of the carton?
There’s no need. In fact, it’s best to keep eggs in the box. It protects them from damage and prevents odours from other food affecting them. Plus, the box clearly displays the best before date for easy reference.
How long can you store eggs in the refrigerator?
You can typically store eggs in the fridge for between 3-5 weeks after you purchase them. Make sure to check the best before date if you’re unsure.
Can I freeze eggs?
Yes, you can freeze eggs. But you’ll need to do some preparation before you stick them in the freezer. Don’t try to freeze eggs in their shell. And beat the egg together before freezing it. We recommend you store eggs in a container with the date clearly labelled, then use them within 6 months.
If you’d like to learn more cool things about fridge freezers, check out our refrigeration buying guide.
