Chef Dean Harper reveals the ideal spot in your home to keep eggs fresh and safe from spoilage, emphasizing the importance of proper storage temperature.
London: Improper food storage can lead to harmful bacteria like salmonella in eggs. This can cause foodborne illnesses if you eat raw or undercooked eggs.
In the US, eggs are refrigerated. This is because they are washed before sale, making them more prone to bacteria. Refrigeration helps prevent contamination.
In the UK, eggs are usually not washed. This keeps the protective layer on the shell intact, allowing them to be stored at room temperature.
Where to store eggs at home is a personal choice for many Brits. Chef Dean Harper, however, believes there’s only one best place for them.
He says keeping eggs at a specific temperature is the best way to prevent spoilage. Watery egg whites can indicate that the eggs are going bad.
Regardless of size or whether they’re organic, eggs can become watery without obvious signs until you crack them open. The age of the egg affects its texture.
Dean explains that high temperatures and low humidity can worsen the texture of egg whites. He recommends refrigerating eggs to keep them fresh.
He warns that watery eggs may not be safe to eat. Look for other signs of spoilage, like unusual colors or bad smells.
Dean advises storing eggs in the coldest part of the fridge, ideally at about 4°C (40°F). This temperature isn’t always consistent in every fridge.
The best spots are usually the bottom and back of the fridge. Cold air sinks, making the bottom the coldest area, while the back is farthest from the door.
Whenever possible, keep eggs in their original carton. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor, according to Dean.
