Freshness & safety

How long do eggs last?

International storage windows for shell eggs, cracked eggs, cooked eggs and liquid products.

Short answer

Storage times depend on egg form, temperature and national guidance. As broad refrigerated references, US guidance lists 3–5 weeks for shell eggs and Canada commonly lists 3–4 weeks; carton instructions take priority.

01

Shell and out-of-shell eggs

Keep shell eggs in their carton at a stable safe temperature. US and Canadian tables commonly give 2–4 days for raw whites or yolks removed from the shell. An accidentally cracked egg should be transferred to a clean covered container and used promptly in a thoroughly cooked dish.

02

Cooked eggs and dishes

Hard-boiled eggs are commonly listed for up to one week under refrigeration. Cooked egg dishes are often given around 3–4 days in US guidance. Cool promptly, store covered and do not leave cooked eggs at room temperature overnight.

03

Liquid and frozen products

Opened pasteurised liquid egg is often listed for about three days in US tables, but the manufacturer’s label is more specific. Freeze raw egg only out of the shell. Product formulation and regional rules can shorten or extend a generic window.

Evidence and guidance

Sources for this topic

  1. US FDA: egg safety
  2. Health Canada: egg safety
  3. UK Food Standards Agency: home food fact checker
  4. FSANZ: food safety basics