Eggs are a staple part of many people’s food shops, and whilst they typically do have a long shelf life, common mistakes can make this shorter.
When arranging groceries in the fridge, it’s tempting to tuck eggs neatly into the fridge door in order to save space.
However, according to storage expert Adam Oakley from Door to Store, this “common habit” is “far from ideal”.
In fact, storing eggs in this manner could cut their shelf life short and even increase the risk of contamination.
This is due to the constant fluctuation in temperature when the door is regularly opened and closed.
The expert said: “This unstable environment creates conditions where bacteria can thrive and can weaken the egg’s natural protective barrier, speeding up spoilage.
“And it’s not just the temperature swings that are the problem. The frequent movement of the door can cause eggs to shake slightly, which might not sound like a big deal but can reduce their quality over time.”
Instead, the storage pro advised placing the grocery staple in the deeper, middle sections of the fridge.
These areas maintain a consistent temperature, typically below 20C, which is crucial for preserving freshness.
If you’re worried about eggs absorbing unwanted smells or flavours from other foods, consider a dedicated tray or container with a lid. Not only will this help to maintain quality, but it will also keep your fridge more organised.
For those tempted to skip the fridge altogether, the expert emphasised that the fridge is the best place for them.
Adam explained: “Eggs stored at room temperature start losing quality within a few days, especially in warmer climates.
“While eggs kept outside the fridge should ideally be used within one to three weeks, refrigerated eggs can last up to three to five weeks with their freshness intact.”
However, it is still best to consume eggs within a few weeks to ensure optimal taste and quality.
To keep eggs fresher for longer, always store them in their original carton, as the porous eggshells can absorb odours from the fridge, and the carton provides a useful barrier.
Avoid washing eggs before storing them as this removes their natural coating, opening them up to bacteria.
It’s also important to place the eggs with the pointed end down to maintain the yolk’s central position and preserve freshness.
Lastly, the expert urged Britons to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as even in a container, they can pick up unwanted odours over time.
