Whether you’ve got backyard chickens or just picked up a dozen farm-fresh eggs from the market, one question always seems to come up: how long are fresh chicken eggs good for? The answer depends on a few key factors, like how the eggs were stored, whether they were washed, and whether you’re keeping them at room temperature or in the fridge.
The good news? Fresh chicken eggs last longer than most people think. And if you store them properly, you can safely enjoy their rich, vibrant yolks for weeks—even months.
How Long Do Fresh Eggs Last at Room Temperature?
If your eggs are unwashed and come straight from the chicken coop, they can last up to 2 to 3 weeks at room temperature. That’s because the egg has a natural protective coating called the “bloom” or “cuticle” that seals the shell and keeps out bacteria.
Farmers in many countries, including parts of Europe, often leave eggs unrefrigerated for this reason. But keep in mind:
- Keep them in a cool, dark place
- Avoid temperature fluctuations
- Don’t wash the eggs until right before use
Once washed, however, the protective layer is removed—and they need to be refrigerated to stay fresh.
How Long Do Fresh Eggs Last in the Fridge?
When stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C), fresh eggs (washed or unwashed) can last 4 to 6 weeks, and often much longer without any drop in quality.
Some people report using fresh eggs after 2 months or more with no problems. For best quality, use them within 6 weeks of laying. Always keep eggs in a carton to reduce moisture loss and prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods.
Washed vs. Unwashed: Why It Matters
- Unwashed eggs: Retain their natural protective coating. Safe to store at room temperature (for a limited time) or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Washed eggs: Lose that protective layer, making them more vulnerable to contamination. These should always be kept refrigerated.
If you’re washing eggs for storage, use warm water, gently scrub with a soft brush if needed, and dry them thoroughly before placing them in the fridge.
How to Tell If a Fresh Egg Is Still Good
You don’t have to guess. Try the simple water test:
- Fill a bowl with water.
- Gently place the egg in.
- Sinks and lays flat: Very fresh.
- Sinks but stands upright: Still good, but getting older.
- Floats: Likely bad. Discard it.
You can also crack an egg into a separate bowl before using it. Look for a firm, rounded yolk and thick, gel-like whites. Runny, watery whites or an off smell mean it’s time to toss it.
Can You Freeze Fresh Eggs?
Absolutely. If you have too many eggs to use before they expire, freezing is a great option.
Here’s how:
- Crack eggs into a bowl (don’t freeze them in the shell)
- Beat lightly to combine yolks and whites
- Pour into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers
- Label and freeze for up to 12 months
You can also freeze yolks and whites separately. Add a pinch of salt or sugar to yolks before freezing to prevent them from becoming gelatinous.
Final Thoughts
To recap:
- Unwashed eggs at room temp: Up to 3 weeks
- Washed or unwashed eggs in the fridge: 4 to 6 weeks or longer
- Frozen eggs (raw, beaten): Up to 1 year
As long as you store them properly and do the occasional freshness check, fresh chicken eggs can stay good far longer than grocery store varieties. So if you’re collecting your own or buying local, you can relax a bit, you’re probably working with some of the freshest eggs around.
And remember: when in doubt, float it out.
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