5 Ways to Tell if an Egg is Fresh or Rotten

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2. The Sniff Test: Trust Your Nose

A quick sniff test can reveal a lot about an egg’s condition. While this might not be the most pleasant method, it’s highly effective.

Instructions:

1. Crack the egg open onto a clean plate or bowl.
2. Smell the egg immediately after cracking.
3. Fresh Egg: Odorless or has a faint, clean scent.
4. Rotten Egg: Emits a strong, sulfuric smell that’s unmistakably foul.

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3. The Shake Test: Detecting Internal Changes

The shake test allows you to sense the internal state of the egg without cracking it open.

Instructions:

1. Hold the egg close to your ear.
2. Gently shake it.
3. Fresh Egg: No sound or very minimal movement.
4. Older Egg: Sloshing sound inside, indicating a breakdown of the egg’s internal structure.

Pro Tip:

This test works best when you’ve mastered the feel of a fresh egg versus an older one.

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4. The Candlelight or Flashlight Test: Visual Inspection

Also known as candling, this method uses a light source to examine the inside of the egg without cracking it.

Instructions:

1. Darken the room for better visibility.
2. Hold a flashlight or candle up to the larger end of the egg.
3. Rotate the egg slowly to observe:
   • Fresh Egg: Small air pocket and well-defined yolk with minimal movement.
   • Older Egg: Larger air pocket and a yolk that moves freely.

Why It’s Useful:

This method not only checks freshness but also reveals any cracks or imperfections in the shell.

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5. Inspecting the Shell: External Clues

The shell can provide valuable hints about an egg’s quality.

Instructions:

1. Examine the shell under good lighting.
2. Fresh Egg: Matte, rough texture, and intact shell.
3. Older Egg: Smooth, shiny surface or small cracks.

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