Does the egg float test work?

We do not suggest using the egg float test to show whether the eggs are safe as it assesses age, not safety.  The float test can't show you which bacteria have been growing inside the egg.  The egg floats because more air gets inside the older it gets, so it's an indicator of age, not safety.

Are eggs safe to eat after the best before date?

Eggs are safe to eat for a couple of days after the best before date if they are cooked well. The best before date should be stamped on the egg. You should make sure both the white and yolk of the egg are cooked thoroughly. You can use eggs a couple of days after the best before date in cooking or baking.

Are raw eggs safe to eat?

There have been improved food safety controls in the UK hen egg industry in recent years. So infants, children, people who are pregnant, and people aged 65 or over can now safely eat raw or lightly cooked hen eggs, or foods containing them if they have a British Lion mark or are produced under the Laid in Britain egg assurance scheme.

This advice does not apply to individuals who are severely immunocompromised and require medically supervised diets prescribed by health professionals.

This advice remains valid during outbreaks of Avian Influenza, also known as Bird flu. Bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for consumers and does not change our advice on consumption of eggs.

Should you store eggs in the fridge?

Eggs should be stored in a cool, dry place. Ideally, eggs should be stored in the fridge. The storage area should be cleaned regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s advice and avoid storing eggs where they would be exposed to extreme temperature changes. Temperature changes can lead to condensation on the surface, which causes increased penetration of Salmonella from the outside of the shell into the egg.

Can I freeze eggs?

Eggs can be frozen and used safely at a later date. Simply crack your eggs into a container, seal and freeze. You can separate yolks from whites first if you prefer and then put them into separate containers.

Label the containers so you can easily identify them when you wish to use them. You can also crack the egg into a sealable container and beat it before freezing. This can be easily used to make scrambled eggs or an omelette