Eggs are universal kitchen favorites, known for their versatility and nutrition. Whether you are making a quick breakfast, baking a cake, or preparing any delicious dish, eggs play an important role. Their ability to bind, puff up and enrich makes them indispensable in countless dishes around the world. But there’s more to eggs than just their culinary magic – they come with their own quirks. A common question people have is how to tell if an egg is still fresh. For generations, “testing the waters” has been a popular method. It’s simple: Place the egg in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs sink to the bottom and lie flat, older eggs float to the top, and if the egg floats, many people assume it has gone bad. Now, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says this tactic isn’t always reliable.
Also read: Egg Handling Tips: How to Buy, Store, Cook, and Eat Eggs to Avoid Food Poisoning
Although floating eggs are a sign of low quality, they may still be safe to consume. The USDA explains, “An egg can float in water when its air cell has expanded enough to keep it buoyant. This means that the egg is of poor quality, but it may be completely safe to use. As the egg ages, the air cell becomes larger due to moisture and air escaping from the shell. The USDA recommends cracking the egg into a bowl to further inspect its freshness.
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Pay attention to any unpleasant odor or unusual appearance, as spoiled eggs will have a foul odor, whether raw or cooked. In short, although the water test can help you detect old eggs, it is not infallible. Always rely on your senses – especially smell and appearance – to confirm whether an egg has gone bad.
Earlier, a study presented at the annual scientific session of the American College of Cardiology suggested that eating eggs may not have a significant effect on cholesterol levels. A study of 140 patients at heart risk found that eating 12 fortified eggs per week had no adverse effect on blood cholesterol compared to eating less than two. Although some conflicting information exists about the effects of eggs on heart health, researchers did not see any negative effects and even possible benefits from eating fortified eggs. However, they recommend exercising moderation and consulting a health care professional for personalized advice on egg consumption. Read more here.
Also read: Egg Keema Pulao, Mughlai Egg and more: 5 delicious egg recipes for dinner
