Eggs are a staple food in most kitchens that are easy to prepare and packed with protein. Hard-boiling eggs is a great way to prepare them for meals, snacks, and even salads. But how long can you keep hard-boiled eggs in the fridge before they become unsafe to eat? In this article, we will provide you with a guide to egg-cellent storage that answers all your questions about how long you can keep hard-boiled eggs in the fridge.
How long can you keep hard-boiled eggs in the fridge?
Hard-boiled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week after they have been cooked. The key to storing hard-boiled eggs is to keep them in the refrigerator at all times, and to peel them only when you’re ready to eat them. Unpeeled hard-boiled eggs can last up to two weeks if stored properly in the refrigerator.
How to store hard-boiled eggs in the fridge?
Storing hard-boiled eggs in the fridge is easy. Once the eggs have been cooked, allow them to cool for about ten minutes before storing them in an airtight container. You can either keep them peeled or unpeeled. We recommend peeling the eggs only when you’re ready to eat them, as peeled eggs tend to dry out faster when exposed to air. Store the eggs at the back of the fridge, as the temperature there is more consistent than the door.
How to tell if hard-boiled eggs are bad?
It can be challenging to tell if hard-boiled eggs are bad, especially if they are already peeled. However, there are a few signs you can look out for to determine if your hard-boiled eggs have gone bad. If you notice any of the following signs, discard the eggs immediately:
- A strong, sulfuric smell coming from the egg
- A slimy or discolored appearance
- A sour or off taste when you eat the egg
Can you freeze hard-boiled eggs?
Yes, you can freeze hard-boiled eggs. However, we only recommend freezing the yolks, not the whole egg. Freezing whole hard-boiled eggs will cause the whites to become rubbery and unappetizing. To freeze the yolks, separate them from the whites and pack them into an airtight container. You can store the yolks in the freezer for up to six months.
Why do hard-boiled eggs turn green sometimes?
Hard-boiled eggs can sometimes develop a greenish ring around the yolk if they have been cooked for too long or at a temperature that is too high. This happens when the iron in the yolk reacts with sulfur in the white, resulting in iron sulfide. The greenish color is harmless but can be an eyesore. To prevent this from happening, cook your eggs for not more than ten minutes and at a low boil.
How many hard-boiled eggs should you eat in a day?
Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, like any food, consuming too much of it can be harmful. We recommend eating no more than two hard-boiled eggs per day, especially if you have a history of high cholesterol or heart disease. If you’re not sure how many hard-boiled eggs you should be eating, consult your healthcare provider.
Hard-boiled eggs and salmonella
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Raw and undercooked eggs are known to carry salmonella, which is why it is crucial to cook eggs thoroughly. Hard-boiled eggs are safe to eat because they have been cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F, which kills any bacteria or viruses that may be present. However, if the eggs are not stored properly, they can still become contaminated with bacteria. Always store your hard-boiled eggs in the refrigerator at all times.
Hard-boiled eggs and weight loss
Hard-boiled eggs are a great addition to any weight loss diet because they are low in calories, high in protein, and keep you feeling full for longer. Eating hard-boiled eggs as a snack can help curb cravings and prevent overeating. However, it’s essential to keep portions in check, as consuming too many hard-boiled eggs can lead to weight gain.
Conclusion
Hard-boiled eggs are a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed in many ways, from salads to sandwiches. By following our guide to egg-cellent storage, you can safely store your hard-boiled eggs and enjoy them for up to a week after they have been cooked. Just remember to always store them in the refrigerator, and peel them only when you’re ready to eat them.
Most common questions related to how long can you keep hard-boiled eggs in the fridge
- How long are hard-boiled eggs good for?
- Can you eat hard-boiled eggs that float?
- Can hard-boiled eggs be left out overnight?
- How to keep hard-boiled eggs from drying out?
- Can you freeze hard-boiled eggs?
Hard-boiled eggs are good for up to one week if stored properly in the fridge.
No. If hard-boiled eggs float in water, it means that they are too old and have gone bad. Discard them immediately.
No. Hard-boiled eggs should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Once cooked, store them in the fridge at all times.
Keep hard-boiled eggs from drying out by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge and peeling them only when you’re ready to eat them.
Yes, you can freeze hard-boiled egg yolks, but not the whole egg. The yolks can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months.
References
1. Eggs and food safety. (2020). HealthLink BC. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/uf4420
2. Food safety: Egg products. (2021). USDA. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/eggs/egg-products-and-food-safety
3. Hard-boiled eggs. (2021). Incredible Egg. https://www.incredibleegg.org/eggcyclopedia/h/hard-boiled-eggs/