How Long Do Eggs Last Past the Julian Date? Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
Learn how long eggs last past the Julian date and how to test their freshness with a simple water float test.
Video transcript
Eggs can last 3-5 weeks past the Julian date if stored properly in the refrigerator. To ensure freshness, conduct a water float test: place the egg in water—if it sinks, it’s still good; if it stands upright or floats, it’s best to discard it.
Questions and answers
What is the Julian date on egg cartons?
The Julian date is a three-digit number on egg cartons representing the day of the year the eggs were packed, ranging from 001 (January 1) to 365 (December 31).
How can I tell if an egg is still safe to eat?
You can perform a water float test: if the egg sinks and lays flat, it's fresh; if it stands upright or floats, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded.
How long can eggs last in the refrigerator past their pack date?
Eggs can last 3 to 5 weeks past the Julian pack date when stored properly in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to store eggs to maximize their shelf life?
Store eggs in their original carton inside the coldest part of the refrigerator, not on the door, to maintain consistent temperature and maximize shelf life.
Related questions
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For more on food storage and safety, check out our guides on how to store dairy products properly and tips for extending the freshness of perishable items.
0:34How Long Are Eggs Safe to Eat After the Sell-By Date?
Learn how long eggs remain safe after the sell-by date and how to test their freshness using simple methods like the float test.