How long will eggs last on the counter?

[HilltopFarm]

I saw the thread about refrigerated egg, but how long will fresh eggs last on the counter that are not washed.

Also, do you have to wash an egg before you crack it open and eat it?

 

[TexasVet]

Eggs are good out on the counter for at least 10 days, which is about how long it takes a hen to lay a clutch of eggs before she starts setting. If they're still good enough to develop into chicks, they're good enough to eat.

It's not necessary to wash eggs before you use them, but I almost always do. Nest boxes aren't the most sanitary places, so I like to get any dirt/germs/good off the eggs before I use them.

Kathy, Bellville TX
www.CountryChickens.com

 

[saddina]

Also depends on where your counter is, here it's easily 95+ in the house, and 110+ outside, not really temps you want eating eggs at.

 

[HilltopFarm]

Quote:
How exactly do you wash them?

 

[TexasVet]

I just rinse them with water that's slightly warmer than the egg is. In this hot Texas heat, that sometimes requires letting them come down to room temp before washing them! If I have a really nasty egg, I may use a sponge and some Dawn dishwashing liquid too.

Kathy, Bellville TX
www.CountryChickens.com

 

[HilltopFarm]

Quote:

Thanks!!

 

[mythkat]

Mother Earth News did an experiment on storing eggs. They said the eggs on the counter could still be eaten at 90 days. Here's the link:

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Sustainable-Farming/1977-11-01/Fresh-Eggs.aspx

 

[PhlyinPheBee]

Quote:

OMG I would die in my house if it was that hot!!!!