Should you keep eggs in the fridge? How improper storage could raise your risk of Salmonella
While your grandmother may have kept eggs on the counter, today's eggs sold in American supermarkets are washed, sanitized, and require refrigeration to stay fresh and safe.
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Still, confusion lingers, particularly among those who've traveled abroad and noticed eggs stored at room temperature in places like France or Mexico. So, what's the right way to store eggs in the US?
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Food safety
researchers say the fridge is your best friend, especially if you want to avoid spoilage, extend shelf life, and protect your health in peak summer heat.
According to Professor Marina Elisabeth Aspholm, a food safety expert at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), the safest and most effective way to extend the life of your eggs, no matter the season, is to keep them in the refrigerator.
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"It is always wise to store eggs in the fridge as it extends their shelf life," Science Norway quoted Aspholm, specializes in food safety and veterinary microbiology.
Why refrigeration matters more in the summer
Eggs are naturally porous. This means water and gases slowly pass through their shells, a process that accelerates in warm conditions.
Storing eggs in the refrigerator slows down this natural evaporation process and inhibits the growth of bacteria, especially during the heat of summer.
'Eggs stay fresh and safe much longer in the fridge,' says Aspholm. 'Often even several weeks past the 'best before' date.'
What about Salmonella? Why refrigeration matters more in the US
Salmonella is a key reason eggs are always found in the refrigerated section at the grocery store in the United States. Unlike in some European countries, like Norway, where hens are vaccinated and egg production is tightly regulated, the US has a higher risk of salmonella contamination.
That's why all commercial eggs in the US are washed and sanitized before sale, but this also removes their natural protective coating, making them more vulnerable to bacteria and requiring constant refrigeration.
To stay safe, the CDC recommends storing eggs in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below and cooking them thoroughly.
If possible, pasteurized eggs should be used in dishes with raw or lightly cooked eggs, like homemade mayo or sunny-side-up eggs, especially for children, older adults, or those with compromised immune systems.
Are backyard or farm eggs safe?
If you're buying eggs from local farms, private backyard hens, or international markets, the level of oversight is often lower. These eggs can carry a higher risk of contamination, especially when hens are outdoors and exposed to wild birds or animals.
'Eggs from hens that roam freely or come from countries with less food safety control should be heat-treated before eating,' Aspholm advises.
Can you freeze eggs?
Yes, but with a caveat. You'll need to remove the shell first. While freezing doesn't eliminate bacteria, it can still be a viable long-term storage method.
However, frozen eggs lose some of their functional properties, such as their ability to whip into fluffy foam.
So, should you refrigerate eggs?
Absolutely. Especially in summer. Whether you're in Norway or elsewhere, keeping eggs in the refrigerator significantly extends their shelf life and reduces bacterial growth.
Even if your local store sells them at room temperature, pop them in the fridge as soon as you get home.
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