Does it Matter Which Way You Store Raw Eggs When They’re in the Carton?
That carton of eggs in your fridge is just begging to be scrambled, fried, poached, or used to make mouthwatering omelettes. When it comes to storing eggs, I have always stuck to keeping the carton right side up (in the “normal” position). So I was surprised to learn that storing eggs upside down is actually the better method for keeping them fresher for longer!
How does storing eggs upside down preserve freshness?
At first, turning your egg carton upside down might sound a little odd and potentially messy. Science and technology educator, Luis Villazon, explains why this storage trick actually works.
“The blunt [or more rounded] end of an egg has an air pocket between the inner and outer shell membranes. This gradually enlarges as the egg loses moisture during storage,” he writes in Science Focus. “Keeping the air pocket [from the rounded end] at the top helps to keep the yolk centered within the egg and prevents the air pocket from rupturing, which reduces the risk of the egg spoiling.”
Eggs are usually placed in the carton with the pointed end facing up, while the blunt side is facing down. So gently turning the carton upside down before placing it in the fridge will ensure maximum freshness.
When you’re ready to use the eggs, turn the carton right side up and grab your desired amount. Then, close the carton and place it upside down again. A simple turn of your egg carton can make a huge difference when it comes to this breakfast staple!
What are some other ways to ensure that eggs stay fresh?
A change in direction isn’t the only way to help eggs stay fresher in the fridge. The USDA also recommends keeping the fridge’s temperature at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Additionally, placing the carton in the coldest part of the fridge (such as at the back, rather than in the door) can prevent the eggs from spoiling too quickly.
With these handy tips, you’ll have a dozen fresh eggs that are perfect to whip up into a fluffy morning scramble or guilt-free zucchini carbonara. Grabbing an extra carton will certainly be on my to-do list for my next trip to the store!
