How Long Do Eggs Last in the Fridge?
Written by Jordan Morley · Storage times from the USDA FoodKeeper database · Last updated 28 October 2026
A whole egg's shell and natural inner membrane are a surprisingly good seal against bacteria, which is why fridge-stored eggs in their shell last weeks rather than days — far longer than almost any other protein in this fridge.
Storage tips for eggs
- Fridge at 0–5°C. A fridge thermometer is the cheapest food-safety upgrade — many home fridges run warmer than their dial suggests.
You can also check the calorie content of eggs alongside their safety information. Dog owners should check if eggs are safe for dogs before sharing, and cat owners can check whether cats can eat eggs.
Why this time limit?
A whole egg's shell and natural inner membrane are a surprisingly good seal against bacteria, which is why fridge-stored eggs in their shell last weeks rather than days — far longer than almost any other protein in this fridge. Once that seal is broken — cracked, beaten, or cooked — the egg is exposed to air and bacteria directly, and its safe window drops sharply: Food Standards Scotland says hard-boiled eggs should be eaten within 2 days, not weeks.
Eggs: shell vs. cracked vs. cooked
| Form | Fridge |
|---|---|
| Whole, in shell (raw) | 3–5 weeks |
| Raw egg whites & yolks (cracked) | 2–4 days |
| Hard-boiled | Up to 2 days |
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Store it properly
Fridge thermometer
These storage times assume 0–5°C — check what your fridge actually runs at.
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Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More storage essentials
Vacuum food sealer
Removes the air that speeds spoilage — extends shelf life by days.
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Fridge, freezer and microwave safe — one less transfer step.
Check Price →Eggs next to similar foods
| Food | Fridge time |
|---|---|
| Cooked Egg Dishes | Up to 2 days |
| Hard-Boiled Eggs | Up to 2 days |
| Raw Egg Whites and Yolks (Cracked) | 2–4 days |
| Liquid Egg Substitutes | 7 days |
| Eggs | 3–5 weeks |
Of the 6 egg foods with a fridge time in this guide, eggs keep for longer than 5.
Eggs: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Safe if Lion-stamped |
| While breastfeeding | Safe |
| In the freezer | Not recommended |
| Reheating | Yes — once, piping hot |
| Past the date on the label | 1–2 days after, if cooked well |
Common questions
How long do eggs last in the fridge?
3–5 weeks in a fridge running at 0–5°C (USDA FoodKeeper guidance). After that, quality and safety both start to slip, and because the bacteria that cause food poisoning are invisible, ‘it seems fine’ is not a reliable test. When in doubt, throw it out.
How can I tell if eggs have gone off?
Crack an egg into a bowl before using it: a sulphurous smell, a watery white or any discolouration means throw it away. Do not rely on this alone: the time guideline matters even when everything looks fine.
Can I freeze eggs to keep them longer?
Freezing is not recommended for this food; the texture tends to suffer badly. Buy or cook only what you will use in time.
Does my fridge temperature really matter?
Yes. These times assume a fridge at 0–5°C, which is what the Food Standards Agency says to set it to. Bacteria grow faster in a warmer fridge, and many fridges run warmer than their dial suggests, so a cheap fridge thermometer is worth having.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.