Hard-boiled eggs are a popular snack and a great source of protein. They can be eaten on their own, added to salads, or used to make deviled eggs. One common question that people have about hard-boiled eggs is how long they can be stored in the fridge. You may be surprised to learn just how long hard-boiled eggs can last in the fridge if they are stored properly.
How Long Do Hard-Boiled Eggs Last in the Fridge?
Hard-boiled eggs can last in the fridge for up to one week if they are stored properly. This means that the eggs must be kept in the fridge at all times and not left out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you plan to keep hard-boiled eggs for longer than a week, you can freeze them for up to three months.
How to Store Hard-Boiled Eggs in the Fridge
- To store hard-boiled eggs in the fridge, start by placing them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes. This will help cool the eggs down and make them easier to peel. Once the eggs are cool, you can remove the shells and store them in an airtight container.
- You can also store hard-boiled eggs in their shells if you prefer. Simply place the eggs in a bowl or container and cover them with cold water. Make sure the water covers the eggs completely. You can add a pinch of salt to the water to help preserve the eggs.
- Once the eggs are in the container, you can place them in the fridge. It’s important to keep the eggs in the fridge at all times and not leave them out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you plan to store the eggs for longer than a week, you may want to consider freezing them instead.
How to Freeze Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Freezing hard-boiled eggs is a great way to extend their shelf life. To freeze hard-boiled eggs, start by removing the shells. You can leave the eggs whole or slice them in half if you prefer.
- Once the shells are removed, place the eggs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. You can also wrap the eggs individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- When you are ready to use the eggs, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can use the thawed eggs in the same way as fresh hard-boiled eggs.
Tips for Storing Hard-Boiled Eggs
Here are some additional tips for storing hard-boiled eggs:
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will last longer than older eggs. If you are unsure if your eggs are fresh, you can perform a float test. Simply place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it’s fresh. If it stands up on one end or floats, it’s not fresh.
- Peel the eggs before storing: Hard-boiled eggs are easier to peel when they are still warm. If you wait too long to peel the eggs, the shells can stick and be difficult to remove.
- Label the container: If you plan to store the eggs for longer than a week, it’s a good idea to label the container with the date they were boiled. This will help you keep track of how long they have been in the fridge.
- Store the eggs on a shelf: Hard-boiled eggs should be stored on a shelf in the fridge, not in the door. The temperature on the door can fluctuate, which can affect the quality of the eggs.
How to Tell if Hard-Boiled Eggs Have Gone Bad
It’s important to know how to tell if hard-boiled eggs have gone bad. If you eat a bad egg, it can make you sick. Here are some signs that your hard-boiled eggs may have gone bad:
Smell: If the hard-boiled egg has a strong sulfur smell, it’s likely gone bad. This smell is caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, which is produced when bacteria break down the proteins in the egg.
Appearance: A bad hard-boiled egg may have a slimy or cloudy appearance. The white of the egg may also appear discolored or have green or gray spots. These are signs that bacteria may be growing on the egg.
Texture: If the texture of the egg is slimy or sticky, it’s likely gone bad. The yolk may also be runny or have an off-color.
Taste: If you taste the egg and it has a sour or unpleasant taste, it’s likely gone bad.
If you are unsure if a hard-boiled egg has gone bad, it’s better to err on the side of caution and throw it away. Eating a bad egg can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Why Do Hard-Boiled Eggs Last So Long?
- You may be wondering why hard-boiled eggs can last so long in the fridge. The answer lies in the way they are cooked.
- When you hard-boil an egg, the high heat kills any bacteria that may be present on the shell. The boiling also causes the proteins in the egg white to denature, or unwind and bond together. This creates a solid structure that helps prevent bacteria from penetrating the egg.
- When you store hard-boiled eggs in the fridge, the cool temperature helps slow down any bacterial growth that may occur. As long as the eggs are kept in an airtight container and not left out at room temperature for too long, they can last for up to a week.
Hard-boiled eggs are a versatile and healthy snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. They can last in the fridge for up to a week if they are stored properly and not left out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you want to keep hard-boiled eggs for longer than a week, you can freeze them for up to three months.
Remember to always use fresh eggs, peel the eggs before storing, and label the container with the date they were boiled. If you suspect a hard-boiled egg has gone bad, it’s better to throw it away than risk getting sick.
By following these tips and storing hard-boiled eggs properly, you can enjoy this nutritious snack for days or even weeks to come.