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How Long Do Eggs Last in the Refrigerator?

Fresh Eggs that are refrigerated can last up to 4 to 5 weeks.

More Info: The majority of the eggs purchased in the United States are refrigerated, thus they should be placed back into an environment that is approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit as soon after purchase as possible. It is best to leave them in the container that they are purchased in and stored in the coolest part of the refrigerator. The egg storage device in a refrigerator door may look convenient, but in reality, the door is much too warm a location for storing eggs. Eggs are naturally created with a protective coating that protects the egg from bacteria entering through the shell. To keep eggs as fresh as possible, do not wash; this is inviting bacteria to invade. For this reason, hard-boiled eggs are only fresh for a week after cooking.

Most eggs sold in the grocery store are likely to have a use-by date stamped onto the carton. It is possible for eggs that have been properly handled to remain viable past this date. A quick test can tell if an egg is past its prime. Just carefully drop an egg into a cup that contains enough water to cover the egg. If the egg sinks to the bottom, it is still good. Old eggs will float to the top of the cup and these eggs should not be eaten. Eggs that are a couple of weeks old should be used for recipes and scrambled eggs, while poached eggs that require firm whites are best made from fresh eggs.