Households across the UK are being urged to move eggs from kitchen cupboards and worktops into the refrigerator during the upcoming heatwave to reduce the risk of food spoilage and contamination.
While UK supermarkets typically store eggs at room temperature due to minimal processing that preserves the shell's natural protective layer, food specialists have warned that rising temperatures and fluctuating humidity levels pose a threat to food safety.
Expert Advice on Egg Storage
According to agricultural specialists at Geldard Farm Eggs, maintaining a stable temperature is essential for preserving freshness. "For maximum freshness, it's best to store eggs in the refrigerator at a steady temperature below 20°C," the specialists advise. "The consistent cool environment slows down the ageing process and helps maintain egg quality for longer."
Experts caution that allowing eggs to warm above 20°C can cause surface condensation to form. This moisture creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, to penetrate the porous shell and contaminate the egg inside. This significantly increases the risk of food poisoning or premature spoilage before the product's printed use-by date, the Express reports.
Best Fridge Placement
For people moving their eggs to the fridge, specialists highlight a common mistake to avoid – using built-in door racks. "Many refrigerators have an egg tray in the door, but this isn't the best place for storage," the experts noted, pointing out that opening and closing the fridge door causes frequent temperature spikes that degrade quality faster.
Instead, households are advised to store eggs on the middle or lower shelf of their refrigerator, where temperatures remain most consistent. Because eggshells naturally absorb surrounding odours, experts also recommend keeping them away from strongly scented items, such as raw onions and garlic, to preserve their natural flavour.
Freezing Eggs for Longer Shelf Life
You can also freeze eggs if you want to extend their shelf life. However, it's vital to note that whole eggs should not be frozen in their shells. Instead, you should crack eggs into a bowl and gently whisk, before pouring the mixture into an ice cube tray or an airtight container. Make sure you label the container with the date and freeze for up to six months. Alternatively, egg whites and yolks can be frozen separately for specific cooking needs.
