Should Eggs Be Kept in the Refrigerator or Not?

Macy Graham

Nov 10, 2024

Eggs are a staple in many diets, whether fried, boiled, or baked into delicious treats. However, there is ongoing debate about how to store eggs properly. Should eggs be kept in the refrigerator, or is it better to leave them at room temperature? The answer is not as simple as it may seem, as various factors—like food safety concerns, cooking preferences, and regional practices—play a role in determining the best way to store eggs.

The Debate on Refrigerating Eggs

A recent letter to The Guardian sparked a conversation on this very topic. A reader shared their experience of lecturing at university against refrigerating eggs. According to this individual, eggs that are cracked directly from the fridge into the frying pan and cooked until perfectly done often result in yolks that remain only slightly warm. The concern was that since egg yolks can sometimes be contaminated with salmonella, cooking an egg from the fridge may present a higher risk of foodborne illness.

On the other hand, some people on platforms like Reddit argue that keeping eggs in the fridge makes them more difficult to cook. According to one Reddit user, an egg that takes 3 minutes to cook at room temperature may take longer or cook unevenly if kept in the fridge. This user mentioned that refrigerated eggs often have a liquid shell that doesn't cook in the same way as eggs that have been left out at room temperature.

Eggs in the UK: A Food Safety Perspective

In the UK, the safety of eggs has generally not been a major concern due to strict food safety regulations. Eggs sold in stores are typically kept at ambient temperatures and, in many cases, do not require refrigeration. As long as the kitchen temperature stays below 20°C (68°F), it is considered safe to store eggs outside of the fridge.

However, it's important to note that the way eggs are stored can vary based on region. In countries like the US, eggs are often washed before sale to prevent contamination, which makes refrigeration more necessary. In contrast, UK eggs are not typically washed before being sold, meaning they retain a natural protective coating that helps keep bacteria at bay.

Expert Recommendations

Despite the ongoing debate, food safety experts generally recommend storing eggs in the refrigerator. This is because the cold temperature helps maintain freshness and extends the shelf life of the eggs. When eggs are kept in the fridge, their quality remains higher for longer periods, reducing the risk of spoilage.

However, experts also suggest that if you plan to cook eggs straight from the fridge, it’s a good idea to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure that the eggs cook evenly and the yolk reaches the desired temperature.

According to guidelines from food safety organizations, eggs should be stored at a temperature below 20°C to maintain their freshness and quality. For most households, this means keeping eggs in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Q1: Is it necessary to refrigerate eggs in all countries?

No, refrigeration is not necessary in all countries. In the UK and many European nations, eggs are often stored at room temperature due to different food safety standards. In countries like the US, eggs are washed before being sold, which makes refrigeration more important to prevent bacterial contamination.

Q2: Can eggs go bad if left out of the fridge?

Eggs can go bad if left out at room temperature for too long, especially if the ambient temperature is above 20°C (68°F). While eggs in their shells are relatively resilient, it is best to store them in the fridge to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.

Q3: Why do refrigerated eggs sometimes cook differently?

Refrigerated eggs can cook differently because the cold temperature affects the egg white and yolk consistency. Cold eggs may take longer to cook, and the yolk may remain more runny compared to eggs stored at room temperature.

Q4: How long can eggs be kept in the fridge?

Eggs can typically be kept in the fridge for up to three to five weeks after purchase, though this can vary depending on their freshness when bought. Always check the "best before" date on the packaging to ensure quality.

Q5: Can eggs be stored in the fridge without a carton?

It is recommended to store eggs in their original carton to protect them from absorbing odors from other foods and to prevent them from cracking. Keeping eggs in the carton also helps maintain their freshness.

Conclusion

The debate about whether eggs should be stored in the fridge or not is influenced by various factors, including regional practices, food safety regulations, and personal preferences. While some individuals prefer the convenience of room-temperature eggs for cooking, experts generally recommend refrigerating eggs to preserve their freshness and quality.

For most people, the best solution is to store eggs in the fridge to prevent spoilage and extend their shelf life. However, if you prefer to cook eggs at room temperature, it’s perfectly fine to leave them out for a short period—just be mindful of the temperature in your kitchen.

Ultimately, the choice of egg storage depends on where you live, the food safety standards in your area, and your personal cooking habits. As always, maintaining proper food hygiene and following expert guidelines is the best way to ensure that your eggs remain safe and delicious.