How to Tell If an Egg Is Bad: A Guide to Avoid Getting Sick
Eggs are a staple in many people’s diets, but it can be challenging to determine whether an egg is bad or fresh. Knowing the signs of an egg that has gone bad is critical to avoid getting sick from foodborne illnesses, which can cause significant health issues. In this article, we will explore different ways to tell if an egg is bad and provide you with tips on how to avoid eating them.
Visually Inspect the Egg
The first step in determining whether an egg is bad is to inspect it visually. Paying close attention to the egg’s appearance can help identify if there are any physical defects that signify that the egg is bad.
There are a few things to look out for when inspecting the egg. Firstly, before purchasing eggs at the store, check for any cracks or chips on the egg’s shell. Cracked eggs can quickly go bad, so avoid purchasing them. Secondly, look for any discoloration or mold-like growth on the egg’s surface. If you notice any mold or other unusual growth, this could indicate that the egg is rotten. Lastly, observe the shape of the egg. Healthy eggs typically have a round or oval shape, so keep an eye out for flattened eggs.
When you find a good egg, it should have a smooth and clean surface without any significant ridges or bumps. Good eggs are also consistently colored, with whites that are clear and yolk that is bright yellow and in the center. Additionally, the eggshell should be clean and smooth.
Sniff the Egg
Another way to determine if an egg is bad is to sniff it. While not as reliable as visually inspecting the egg, smelling the egg can often help identify whether it’s good or bad.
When sniffing the egg, hold it a few inches from your nose. If you notice a pungent odor, like sulfur or a reminiscent of spoiled food, this indicates that the egg is bad. However, keep in mind that a slightly ‘eggy’ odor is normal, especially for farm-fresh eggs.
When sniffing the egg, it’s also essential to handle it safely. Holding it away from your face will decrease your chances of inhaling bacteria that could be present on the egg
The Float Test
The float test is another popular way to determine if an egg is bad. The float test works on the premise that eggs that are fresh or edible will sink to the bottom of the water, while rotten eggs will stand on their end or float to the surface.
To perform the float test, you’ll just need a bowl of water deep enough to cover the egg fully. Place the egg gently into the water and watch how it behaves. If the egg sinks and lays on its side, it is still fresh and edible. But, if an egg stands up at its small end or floats to the surface, it is most likely spoiled and should be discarded.
The Shake Test
The shake test is another helpful way to determine if an egg is good or bad. Healthy eggs should create a minimal sound when shaken, while bad eggs tend to produce a sloshing sound due to the watery egg white contents caused by bacterial action.
To perform the shake test, take the suspected egg and shake it by holding it up to your ear. If you hear nothing, the egg is most likely fresh and good to eat. If you hear a liquid sloshing sound, this could indicate that the egg is off and should be thrown away.
Crack the Egg
Cracking an egg open might not be the most pleasant method, but it does give you a chance to see if the egg is bad. However, it’s important to use cracking as a last resort.
When cracking the egg, check the color and consistency of the yolk and white. If the egg white is thin, runny, or watery, it is a sign that the egg has gone bad. Similarly, if the yolk’s color appears to be dull and flat or mixed with egg white, it has gone past its expiration date. On the other hand, good eggs typically have a rounded golden yolk, resting in a thick, cloud-shaped white.
Buy from a Reputable Source
One of the best ways to avoid bad eggs is to purchase them from a reputable source. Eggs bought from reputable sources like grocery stores are much more likely to be fresh and good to eat. Also, be sure to observe the expiration date of the egg before use.
Storing eggs properly is equally important. For example, store eggs in the fridge to prevent any growth of bacteria and use them before the expiration date. Keeping eggs covered in the fridge is also a good way to prevent cross-contamination and spoilage.
Conclusion
Identifying bad eggs is essential for your health as consuming a spoiled egg can be harmful. The best way to avoid rotten eggs is to check for physical defects, smell for any unusual odor, use a float test, shake test, or cracking the egg open. Lastly, remember to buy eggs from a trusted source and store them properly in the fridge. Telling if an egg is bad does not have to be complicated or tricky. By following these tips, your chances of eating a bad egg and getting sick decrease significantly.
