In The Store

Refrigeration Required

Always purchase eggs from a refrigerated case. As the “refrigeration required” label states, eggs must stay cold to prevent bacteria growth. After eggs are refrigerated on the farm, they are stored and transported at an ambient air temperature of ≤45° F.

Check for Cracks

Open the carton and ensure no eggs have cracked, because bacteria can enter through cracks in the shell. If eggs crack on the way home, they can be safely used with some handling precautions.

Purchase Before Sell-by Date

Two dates can appear on egg cartons, the Julian date and the sell-by date. Always purchase eggs before the sell-by or expiration date. When kept refrigerated, fresh shell eggs are safe to be consumed four to five weeks beyond the date they were packed, which is the Julian date found on the carton's short end.