The Secret Meanings Behind the Codes on Egg Cartons

How to Tell If an Egg Is Bad

If you’re unsure whether an egg is still fresh, you can try these simple tests.

The Float Test

Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg inside.

  • Fresh eggs sink and lie flat at the bottom.

  • Slightly older eggs stand upright but remain submerged.

  • Bad eggs float, because air has built up inside the shell.

The Crack Test

Crack the egg into a separate bowl.

  • Fresh eggs have firm yolks and thick whites.

  • Older eggs have flatter yolks and runnier whites.

If the egg smells unpleasant or looks unusual, it’s best to throw it away.


Tips for Buying the Freshest Eggs