Can you refrigerate cooked eggs?

In this article, we will explore the question, “Can you refrigerate cooked eggs?” We will also discuss properly storing cooked eggs.

Can you refrigerate cooked eggs?

Yes, you can refrigerate cooked eggs. Store them in an air-tight container or plastic zipper bag at or below 40°F or 4°C  on the refrigerator shelves. Avoid storing them in the fridge door due to temperature fluctuations. 

Proper storage ensures they remain safe to eat for about 2 days. Remember to thoroughly reheat them to 165°F or 74°C before serving, as recommended for safety by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (1).

How long can cooked eggs be kept in the refrigerator?

When it comes to refrigerating cooked eggs, it is recommended to store them in the refrigerator for about 2 days at consistent temperatures (2 and 3). 

If you plan to use the eggs later, refrigeration is advised.

 Refrigerated cooked eggs can be utilized in various ways, such as in salad dressings, sauces, or as fillings for deviled eggs.

What are the recommendations to refrigerate cooked eggs?

Cooked eggs should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacterial growth occurs rapidly between 40 °F or 4°C and 140 °F or 60°C, increasing the risk of contamination. Discard eggs left out for longer to ensure food safety (4).

To properly store cooked eggs, use shallow containers for even and quick cooling in the refrigerator (1). 

Ensure eggs cool thoroughly before placing them in containers or zip-lock bags. Avoid sealing steaming hot eggs, as moisture trapped inside can create a suitable environment for bacterial growth (5).

Store cooked eggs on the refrigerator shelves, not the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations. Opt for the middle shelf for better stability.

What are the risks of improper refrigeration of eggs?

Improper refrigeration could reduce the shelf life of cooked eggs, promote surface dryness, and result in changes in texture and appearance (6). 

Improper refrigeration could also lead to contact with other microorganisms present in the fridge, increasing the risk of contamination (4). 

Additionally, high humidity in the fridge could promote fungal growth (4 and 6). 

In all cases, consuming eggs that have been subjected to improper refrigeration is not recommended and may cause health issues.

What are the best practices for reheating cooked eggs?

When reheating cooked eggs, ensure fully cooked yolks for safety and enhanced flavor. Store leftovers properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. 

Gradually reheat eggs in simmering water to preserve texture and prevent overcooking (1, 6 and 8). 

By following these practices, enjoy safe and delicious reheated eggs with desired quality. 

What are signs of spoilage in cooked eggs? 

To determine if boiled eggs have gone bad, you can rely on the odor as a reliable indicator. Fresh eggs have a mild, agreeable smell, while spoiled eggs emit an unpleasant, sulfur-like, or putrid odor (8).

 Additionally, check for signs of spoilage such as sliminess, watery whites, discolored yolk, or an off texture. 

When in doubt, it is safer to discard the egg to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses (4)

Other FAQs about Eggs that you may be interested in.

Can you refrigerate soft-boiled eggs?

How long can raw eggs stay out?

Conclusion

In this article, we will explore the question, “Can you refrigerate cooked eggs?” Yes, you can refrigerate cooked eggs for 2 days in an airtight container at 40°F or 4°C on fridge shelves.

References

1. FDA. U. S. Food and Drug Administration. Egg Safety: What You Need to Know.  [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 29]. Available from: 

https://www.fda.gov/media/82227/download

2. FDA. U. S. Food and Drug Administration. What You Need to Know About Egg Safety.  [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 29]. Available from: 

https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/what-you-need-know-about-egg-safety#:~:text=Wash%20hands%2C%20utensils%2C%20equipment%2C,cooked%20to%20160%C2%B0%20F.

3. FDA. U. S. Food and Drug Administration. How Temperatures Affect Food.  [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 29]. Available from: 

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/how-temperatures-affect-food

4. Linscott AJ. Food-Borne Illnesses. Clin Microbiol Newsl [Internet]. 2011;33(6):41–5. Available from:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.clinmicnews.2011.02.004

5. Torrico DD, No HK, Prinyawiwatkul W, Janes M, Corredor JA, Osorio LF. Mineral oil–chitosan emulsion coatings affect quality and shelf‐life of coated eggs during refrigerated and room temperature storage. Journal of Food Science. 2011 May;76(4):S262-8. Available from: 

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02125.x

6. Wahba NA, Mel-Shereif WA, Amin M. The effect of different preservation methods on egg quality and validity. Assiut Veterinary Medical Journal. 2014 Oct 1;60(143):42-8. Available from: https://avmj.journals.ekb.eg/article_171048.html

7. Bryan FL. Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems for Retail Food and Restaurant Operations. J Food Prot [Internet]. 1990;53(11):978–83. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X2202823X

8. Wolc A, Arango J, Settar P, O’Sullivan NP, Olori VE, White IMS, et al. Genetic parameters of egg defects and egg quality in layer chickens. Poult Sci [Internet]. 2012;91(6):1292–8. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119402460

https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/79411/11-tips-chefs-cooking-perfect-eggs
https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-long-can-you-keep-scrambled-eggs-in-the-refrigerator/#:~:text=Storing%20Cooked%20Eggs,-When%20storing%20cooked&text=On%20average%2C%20most%20cooked%20eggs,lower%20when%20storing%20cooked%20eggs.
https://www.eggs.ca/eggs101/view/39/egg-storage-freshness-and-food-safety

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