How Long Can Store-Bought Eggs Sit Out? Resolved

Last Updated on September 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

Eggs are a staple in kitchens, and keeping them **fresh** and **safe** matters a lot. So, how long can store-bought eggs stay out before they spoil?

The answer can depend on various factors, including the temperature and humidity of the environment, whether the eggs have been cooked or not, and whether they have been washed or not. 

Read on for more information.

How Long Are Eggs Good For At Room Temperature?

Store-bought eggs should not be left at room temperature for over 2 hours. This is because eggs are perishable food and can spoil quickly at room temperature. 

Bacteria can multiply rapidly on the surface of eggs, which can cause foodborne illness if consumed. If you are still determining how long your eggs [1] have been sitting out, it’s best to err on caution and discard them. 

It’s important to note that this recommendation applies to eggs that have not been cooked or washed. 

Cooked eggs can be safely left out for a shorter period, while washed eggs should always be refrigerated.

Read:

• How Long Is Quiche Good For in The Fridge?
• How To Flip An Omelette Without Breaking It?
• Costco Mini Quiche Cooking Instructions
• Are England’s Best Eggs Genetically Modified?

Does Temperature & Humidity Affect How Long Eggs Can Sit Out?

Yes, the temperature and humidity of the environment can affect how long store-bought eggs can sit out.

Eggs should be stored in a cool and dry environment, with a temperature between 33-40°F (0-4°C) for maximum freshness and safety. 

If eggs are stored in an environment that is too warm or humid, they can spoil more quickly and become unsafe to eat.

Additionally, eggs can spoil more quickly if exposed to fluctuating or extreme temperatures, such as being left in a car on a hot day. 

Read: Why Do My Eggs Stick To The Pan?

Can You Freeze Store-Bought Eggs?

Yes, you can freeze store-bought eggs. Freezing eggs is a great way to extend their shelf life and prevent them from spoiling. To freeze eggs, crack them into a bowl and whisk them together until well combined. 

Pour the mixture into an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date.

“I was eating in a Chinese restaurant downtown. There was a dish called Mother and Child Reunion. It’s chicken and eggs. And I said, I gotta use that one.’

– Paul Simon, American Musician

Frozen eggs can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to use the frozen eggs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using them in your recipe. 

It’s important to note that freezing can affect the texture of the eggs, so they may not be suitable for recipes that require a fluffy or airy texture, such as meringues.

However, frozen eggs can still be used in recipes such as quiches [2], frittatas, and baked goods.

5 Signs That Your Eggs Might Have Gone Bad

1. Appearance: If the eggshell appears cracked, slimy, or dirty, it may have come into contact with bacteria and could be unsafe to eat. Also, if the egg white or yolk appears discolored or has a strange texture, this could indicate that the egg is rotten.
2. Smell: Fresh eggs should not have any noticeable odor. If the egg smells rotten or sulfurous, it may be spoiled and should be discarded.
3. Floating: Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it floats to the top, it could be a sign that air has entered the egg, meaning it has gone bad.
4. Check the expiration date: If the expiration date on the carton has passed, the eggs may no longer be safe to eat.
5. Cracking: If you notice cracks in the eggshell, this can create an opportunity for bacteria to enter and spoil the egg.

6 Tips On How To Store Eggs

1. Refrigerate: Eggs should be refrigerated immediately after purchase to keep them fresh and safe. Store them in their original carton to protect them from breakage and contamination.
2. Avoid temperature fluctuations: Store eggs in the central part of the refrigerator rather than in the door, where temperature fluctuations can occur when the door is opened and closed.
3. Wait to wash until ready to use: Wash store-bought eggs until you are ready to use them, as washing can remove the protective layer on the eggshell and make it easier for bacteria to enter the egg.
4. Use the oldest first: When using store-bought eggs, it’s best to use the oldest ones first to ensure that they are still fresh.
5. Keep separate from other foods: Store eggs away from raw meat and poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
6. Don’t freeze in the shell: Do not freeze eggs in their shell, as the expanding liquid inside the egg can cause the shell to crack.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

It is essential to handle store-bought eggs properly to ensure they remain fresh and safe. 

Eggs should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours and should be stored in a cool and dry environment, with a temperature between 33-40°F (0-4°C) for maximum freshness and safety. 

The temperature and humidity of the environment can affect how long store-bought eggs can sit out, and it’s essential to monitor the storage environment to prevent spoilage. 

Signs that store-bought eggs may have gone bad include appearance, smell, floating, checking the expiration date, and cracking. 

References:

1. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/eggs/
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/quiche-recipes