How long do boiled eggs last? (+7 Ways to use)

In this article, we will answer the question “How long do boiled eggs last?”, and discuss boiled eggs shelf-life.

How long do boiled eggs last?

Boiled eggs can last for approximately 2 days if stored in the refrigerator. It is important to either consume soft-boiled eggs immediately or refrigerate them (1 and 2). 

Reheating the stored eggs is possible by placing them in simmering water for about 1 minute. Leaving boiled eggs at room temperature for more than 2 hours is not recommended (2). 

Freezing boiled eggs is also not advisable as it significantly affects their quality, causing rubbery egg whites and crumbly yolks, along with the potential development of a foul smell and watery texture.

How to store boiled eggs?

To store boiled eggs, it is important to follow proper storage practices. If you have refrigerated hard-boiled eggs and plan to reheat them later, it is crucial to store them correctly (2 and 3). 

Place the cooled eggs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap (3). 

This method helps preserve their freshness and prevents any potential contamination.

How to make hard-boiled eggs?

To make the hard-boiled eggs, follow these steps for optimal results (4).

1. Start by adding water to a saucepan or pot. The water level should be enough to fully submerge the eggs, with an additional 2 inches of water above them.

2. Consider the size and initial temperature of the eggs and water, as they can influence the cooking time. Using eggs at room temperature and adding warm water may result in more accurate cooking times.

3. Gently place the egg(s) into the boiling water, being careful not to crack them.

4. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the eggs cook for approximately 11 minutes. This cooking time is ideal for achieving a perfect hard-boiled yolk.

5. Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the hot water and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This helps stop the cooking process and makes it easier to peel the eggs later.

By following these steps, considering the size and initial temperature of the eggs and water, and cooking them for approximately 11 minutes, you can achieve the hard-boiled eggs with a firm yolk.

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 (5). 

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

What affects how long boiled eggs last? 

The shelf life of boiled eggs is affected by several factors, with storage temperature and humidity being crucial. Maintaining a consistent humidity level around 75% is vital to preserving boiled egg freshness (6). 

However, monitoring humidity carefully is essential; low humidity can cause eggs to dry out, while high humidity may lead to mold growth (6). 

These factors significantly influence how long boiled eggs last and their overall quality over time.

What  are signs of spoilage in cooked eggs? 

To ascertain the freshness of boiled eggs, trust your nose as a reliable guide. Fresh eggs possess a gentle, pleasing aroma, whereas spoiled eggs release an unpleasant, sulfurous, or rancid smell (5). 

Moreover, watch out for indicators of spoilage like slimy texture, watery whites, abnormal yolk coloration, or an unusual consistency. If you have any uncertainty, it’s wiser to dispose of the egg to minimize the possibility of foodborne ailments (7).

Other FAQs about Eggs which you may be interested in.

How long do deviled eggs last in the fridge?

Can you reheat hard-boiled eggs?

Conclusion

In this article, we have addressed the question, ‘How long do boiled eggs last?’ Boiled eggs can last for approximately 2 days if stored in the refrigerator. Leaving boiled eggs at room temperature for more than 2 hours is not recommended. 

References

1. 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

2. FDA. U. S. Food and Drug Administration. Egg Safety: What You Need to Know.  [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from:

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

3. 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

4. Kim KW, Daeschel M, Zhao Y. Edible coatings for enhancing microbial safety and extending shelf life of hard‐boiled eggs. Journal of food science. 2008 Jun;73(5):M227-35. Available from: 

https://ift.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1750-3841.2008.00776.

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

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