Can you bake with expired eggs? (+5 Tips for older eggs)
In this article, we will answer the question “Can you bake with expired eggs?”, and how to identify a fresh egg?
Can you bake with expired eggs?
As much as I’d like to say no, you can still bake with expired eggs. The latest research supports that eggs can be added to dishes even past their expiration date. As long as the eggs are thoroughly cooked and stored properly, there won’t be a change in the flavor or aroma of the eggs.
However, upon the consumption of baked goods made with expired eggs, there are possible risks of getting a salmonella infection. These bacteria grow on the surface as well as on the inside of an egg. It is up to you to decide if you’re willing to take that risk.
However, if the eggs were refrigerated, the eggs might be safe to consume after a day or two past the expiration date.
It is advised to always check if there is any off-odor coming from your eggs or any slimy appearance, in which case, do not think twice and throw them away immediately.
How to tell if the eggs are fresh or old?
In order to distinguish a fresh and old egg, two very famous methods are as follows.
Float test
This is the easiest method to identify fresh eggs. Carefully submerge an egg in a bowl filled with water. If the egg jumps to the surface and starts to float, it is old. If the egg settles down at the bottom, it is fresh.
After an egg is laid, its temperature drops during which an air cell forms inside of it at the larger end. This space grows larger due to continuous evaporation. Therefore an older egg with a larger air cell floats over water.
Egg candling
Egg candling is performed using a candling lamp to check the stage of chick development inside a fertilized egg. It can also be used to check the freshness of an egg.
A bright light source is used to see through an egg from its broader side. If it looks empty or you feel the egg contents movings inside because of larger air space, the egg is old.
Everything you need to know about the ‘Sell by’, ‘Use by’ and ‘Best by’
The ‘Sell by’ date indicates that the eggs or any other food product should not be kept on the store shelves past this date. However, most of the stores do not comply. Therefore, the ‘Sell By’ date is not only of concern for the seller but also for the buyer. Make sure you check the sell-by before buying.
‘Use by’ date is the last day the manufacturer guarantees the product quality. Beyond this date, food may not remain of prime quality but is safe to eat.
‘Best by’ is more of the consumer-oriented. It is the last day the product should be consumed. Beyond this date, the product loses its quality considerably.
What happens if I eat expired eggs?
If the expired eggs were contaminated due to improper storage, it is highly likely that you may experience symptoms of food poisoning due to salmonella. Food poisoning due to salmonella reflects in the form of vomiting, nausea diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.
People with a compromised immune system like children, the elderly, or pregnant women might require proper treatment and care to recover from salmonella poisoning.
Other FAQs about Eggs which you may be interested in.
Can I make box brownies without eggs?
How to tell if the eggs are bad?
- Smell your eggs. If they give off a foul odor, throw them out immediately.
- If the eggshell develops a slimy layer and feels tacky upon touching, throw it in the bin as it is a clear indicator of bacterial and/or mold growth.
- An egg with an eggshell that is damaged or cracked from anywhere is not recommended to consume as there are high chances of contamination by salmonella for such eggs.
What to do with not-so-fresh eggs?
Go for the following ideas if the eggs are no longer of the best quality to be used for baking, cooking, or whipping.
Make compost
Eggs are a rich source of calcium, phosphoric acid, and nitrogen. Even after spoilage eggs can be used in the garden to reap these nutrients. Just bury the spoiled eggs in your garden and it will act as a fertilizer when it decomposes. Before doing so, make sure you check the plant’s needs.
Protein treatment for your hair
If the eggs are not-so-fresh to be edible, use them to make a hair mask for a protein boost. Use the only yolk to moisturize dry hair. If you have an oily scalp, use egg white.
Get rid of acne
Egg white is a rich source of protein and if it does not smell too bad, use it to make an egg white mask to combat acne and shrink pores.
Paint
Egg yolk is rich in oils and can be used to make egg tempera for oil painting. Just whip some yolk, water, and pigment, and paint.
Make deviled eggs
Make deviled eggs using your older eggs using your favorite fillings.
Conclusion
In this article, we answered the question “Can you bake with expired eggs?”, and how to identify a fresh egg?
