3 Ways to Tell if an Egg is Fresh or Bad

Eggs are a kitchen staple, but using a spoiled egg can ruin a dish—or worse, cause foodborne illness. Luckily, there are simple ways to test an egg’s freshness at home without cracking it open. Here are three reliable methods.

1. The Water Test 💧

How it Works:
Fresh eggs sink in water, while older eggs float due to the air cell that enlarges over time.

Steps:

Fill a bowl or glass with cold water.

Gently place the egg in the water.

Observe:

Sinks and lays flat on the bottom: Very fresh

Sinks but stands upright: Still safe to eat, but not at peak freshness

Floats: The egg is bad and should be discarded

Why It Works:
As eggs age, moisture and air enter the shell, increasing buoyancy. Floating eggs indicate a significant air pocket and potential spoilage.

2. The Sniff Test 👃