Check the expiration or sell-by date on the carton
Place the egg in a bowl of water
Fresh eggs sink and lie flat on the bottom
Slightly older eggs sink but stand upright
Bad eggs float and should be discarded
Crack the egg into a separate bowl
Fresh eggs have a firm yolk and thick white
Check for any bad smell
Look for unusual discoloration or sliminess
Inspect the shell for cracks or leakage