Can You Eat Eggs After Its Use-By Date?
Reviewed against FSA date labelling guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
Eggs carry a best-before date, and the FSA says they can be eaten a day or two after it — as long as they're cooked thoroughly until white and yolk are firm.
Use-by vs best-before — which does this food carry?
Eggs are a special case: they carry a best-before date (set at 28 days from lay), and FSA guidance says eggs can be eaten a day or two after that date provided they're cooked thoroughly — hard-boiled, in a fully baked cake, or fried firm. The thorough cooking kills any salmonella. Past the date, skip runny yolks, homemade mayo and soft meringues. The float test (fresh eggs sink, old eggs float) indicates age, not safety — use it for quality only.
You can also check the calorie content of eggs alongside its safety information.
As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Waste less, safely
Fridge thermometer
Date labels assume 0–5°C — many home fridges quietly run warmer.
Check Price →Airtight storage containers
Opened food lasts longest sealed properly, not in a folded-over packet.
Check Price →Bread bin
Cool, dark and ventilated — bread's best-before does more work in one.
Check Price →Links open your local Amazon store. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More storage essentials
Links open your local Amazon store. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Common questions
Do eggs have a use-by or best-before date?
Best-before — set at a maximum of 28 days from laying. That's why there's a little flexibility, unlike use-by foods.
Is the float test reliable?
It measures the air pocket, which grows as eggs age — so it's a decent freshness gauge but not a safety test. An egg can float and still be fine to use in thorough cooking, or sink and be past its best-before window.
Can I still have runny yolks after the date?
No — the day-or-two grace period is only for thoroughly cooked eggs. Runny and raw preparations should use in-date eggs (ideally British Lion stamped).
How should I store eggs to reach the date in good condition?
In the fridge, in their box, away from strong-smelling foods. Consistent cold storage is why the FSA recommends refrigerating eggs at home.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA date labelling guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.