Many people check egg cartons carefully before shopping. But what if you miss a cracked egg until you get home? The answer depends on when the crack appeared. This timing determines if you should discard it or proceed with your breakfast plans.
Here’s what you need to know to safely handle and store cracked eggs.
The safety of a cracked egg depends entirely on how and when the crack occurred.
If you discover a cracked egg immediately after purchase, it is best to discard it. Bacteria can penetrate cracks, making the egg unsafe to eat. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service advises consumers to remove cracked egg cartons from store shelves. Studies, such as one from Taiwan, indicate that eggs with weak or cracked shells have a significantly higher risk of Salmonella contamination.
If you accidentally crack an egg at home, you can still use it if stored properly.
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The safety of a cracked egg depends entirely on how and when the crack occurred. Better Homes & Gardens |
The safety of a cracked egg depends entirely on how and when the crack occurred. Better Homes & Gardens
How to store cracked eggs safely
The refrigeration time for cracked eggs depends on whether they are whites, yolks, or whole eggs, and your chosen storage method.
Refrigerated storage
If you accidentally drop or crack an egg in your kitchen, promptly transfer it to a clean, sealed container and refrigerate it. Use this egg within a maximum of two days.
Before preparing dishes like scrambled eggs, poached eggs, or omelets, ensure the egg is cooked thoroughly to eliminate bacteria.
Frozen storage
Egg whites: You can separate egg whites and freeze them safely for up to one year. A helpful tip is to divide them into ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Whole eggs: To freeze whole eggs, beat the whites and yolks together, then place them in a sealed container. This method also helps maintain egg quality for up to one year.
Egg yolks: Note that separated egg yolks cannot be preserved by freezing.
If an egg cracks while boiling on the stove or in a pressure cooker, simply peel and use it as normal. Eggs cracked due to heat during cooking are completely safe to consume.
By My Y (Source: Better Homes & Gardens)
