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How to Tell if an Egg Is Bad?

Post actualizado el día September 28, 2026 by DeiviSanzPlay

How many times have you opened the fridge and wondered if that egg you have there is still in good condition? It can be tricky to tell if an egg is bad just by looking at it or smelling it, but there are some simple techniques that will help you find out right away. Knowing if an egg is bad is essential, especially when you don’t want to run the risk of eating something that’s gone off.

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One of the simplest ways to tell if an egg is in bad condition is by using the water test. This trick is foolproof and very easy to do at home. All you have to do is fill a container with cold water and place the egg inside. If the egg sinks and stays at the bottom, it’s fresh! If the egg stays at the bottom but tilts slightly, it’s still good to eat. But if the egg floats on the surface, then it’s a sign that it’s bad and it’s best to throw it away. Why does this happen? Well, over time, the egg loses moisture and air accumulates inside the shell, which makes the egg float.

But the water test isn’t the only useful method. You can also smell the egg to tell if it’s in good condition. When you crack an egg, if you smell an unpleasant aroma, then it’s a clear sign that the egg is bad and you shouldn’t eat it. This is one of the most effective methods for identifying a bad egg, since the bad smell is very distinctive. If you don’t notice anything strange when you smell it, you can rest assured that the egg is still safe to eat.

Another technique you can use to verify if an egg is bad is to examine the shell. If the shell is cracked or very dirty, it’s a sign that the egg may have started to deteriorate. Although sometimes cracks can be superficial, if you notice that the egg has a strange appearance, such as spots or swelling, it’s best not to consume it. Remember that the shell also serves as a natural protection, so any damage can allow bacteria to enter.

If you’re looking for a more precise way to tell if an egg is bad without cracking it, you can try shaking it lightly. If you hear a liquid sound inside the egg, it’s likely old and therefore, it’s better not to risk it. Fresh eggs, on the other hand, don’t usually make any noise when shaken. This is a sign that can help you distinguish fresh eggs from old ones.

Sometimes, time also plays an important role in knowing if an egg is in good condition. Fresh eggs can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator. If you don’t remember when you bought the egg, but you know it’s been a long time, it’s best to do the float test in water or crack the egg to see if it smells good before using it. It’s important to remember that the expiration date on the egg carton isn’t always a definitive rule; eggs can often last longer if they’ve been stored properly, but freshness should always be verified.

Also, although the egg shell seems to protect it, eggs can spoil due to storage conditions. It’s advisable to keep eggs in their original carton in the refrigerator so they stay fresh longer. If you leave eggs out of the refrigerator for several days, they’re much more likely to deteriorate quickly. That’s why having a suitable place to store eggs is crucial for extending their shelf life.

Another important recommendation is not to rely solely on the color or appearance of the shell to determine if an egg is good. Eggs can come in different colors, but this has nothing to do with their freshness. In fact, what matters is how the egg has been stored and how much time has passed since it was laid. So don’t be fooled by an egg that looks nice on the outside if you haven’t verified its freshness in some other way.

In summary, knowing if an egg is bad doesn’t have to be a mystery. You can try the water test to check its freshness, or simply smell it once you crack it. You should also take into account the appearance of the shell, how long the egg has been in your fridge, and the sound when you shake it. If any of these signs tells you that the egg is bad, it’s best not to risk it and throw it away. So now you know, if you ever have doubts about whether that egg is in good condition, don’t hesitate to try one of these simple methods. Stay safe and enjoy your fresh eggs without worries.