Why Ignoring This Detail Is a Mistake
You Might Be Using Old Eggs: Eggs can last beyond the sell-by date if stored properly, but using eggs far past their pack or expiration date increases risk of foodborne illness.
You Could Be Wasting Food: Eggs often stay good beyond the printed dates. Knowing how to interpret these dates and check egg freshness (e.g., the water test) means you won’t throw away perfectly good eggs.
You Could Be Buying Less Fresh Eggs: If you only glance at the price or brand, you might miss the fact that some cartons have eggs packed weeks ago. Checking the pack date helps you choose fresher eggs.
How to Use This Detail Wisely
Always check the pack date to choose the freshest eggs.
Use the water test (place an egg in a bowl of water—if it sinks, it’s fresh; if it floats, it’s old).
Store eggs in the refrigerator immediately and keep them in their carton to maintain quality.
Don’t rely solely on the expiration date; use your senses and tests for freshness.
The Bottom Line
That tiny date printed on your egg carton holds valuable information that can help you keep your kitchen safe, reduce waste, and enjoy the best-tasting eggs. Next time you’re at the store or reaching into your fridge, take a moment to read that small detail. It’s a small habit that could make a big difference.
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