Eggs seem simple, but how you handle them after they leave the nest makes a big difference. Done wrong, you risk Salmonella contamination, which can cause serious illness. Done right, your eggs stay fresh longer and your family stays safe. Here’s what you need to know.
Washed vs. Unwashed Eggs
Washed Eggs
Washed eggs should go into the fridge within 2 hours of washing. The bloom has been removed, so the shell is now porous to bacteria. Keep them in the coldest part of the fridge, away from strong-smelling foods. Stored properly, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 weeks.
Unwashed Eggs
Since the bloom is still intact, unwashed eggs don’t need refrigeration right away. Keep them on the counter in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Move them to the fridge for up to 3 months of storage.
The Golden Rule
Never switch back and forth between counter and fridge. Temperature changes cause condensation that lets bacteria sneak in through the shell. Handle gently, check for cracks before using, and always use the oldest eggs first.
Why Egg Handling Matters
Here at Tournesol Farms, we believe that a good egg deserves to be treated well from the moment it leaves the nest.
Eggs have a natural protective layer called the bloom. This tiny coating is applied by the hen right before she lays the egg, and it seals the shell to keep bacteria out and moisture in. Without it, eggs spoil much faster. That’s why how you store and handle your eggs makes such a big difference.
Washing removes the bloom, which means the egg is now more open to bacteria and temperature changes. Because of this, washed eggs should go into the fridge within 2 hours. Keep them in the coldest part of the fridge, away from strong-smelling foods — eggshells are porous and can absorb odors.
