Check the expiration or “best by” date on the carton
Do a water test:
Fill a bowl with cold water
Place the egg in the water
If it sinks and lays flat, it’s fresh
If it sinks but stands upright, use soon
If it floats, discard
Do a smell test after cracking
Crack into a separate bowl
If it smells bad or sulfurous, discard
Do a visual check after cracking
Discard if the yolk is broken or unusually runny
Discard if whites are pink, red, green, or cloudy with strange discoloration
Discard if you see mold or strong off colors
Check for a cracked or leaking shell
Discard if the shell is cracked, leaking, or heavily soiled with spoilage
Store eggs properly
Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below
Keep in the original carton to protect from temperature changes
Use within recommended time after purchase
Use within about 3–5 weeks of purchase if kept continuously refrigerated
When in doubt, throw it out