Stop storing eggs in the fridge door when 'overlooked' alternative keeps them fresher

The debate over egg storage divides opinion, with some favouring refrigeration while others champion keeping them at room temperature. In the US, eggs are washed and sanitised, stripping away their natural protective layer and making refrigeration essential. This process doesn't apply to eggs sold in the UK, yet many people still insist on chilling their eggs for extended freshness. Dean Harper, chef at Harper Fine Dining, said eggs "should definitely be stored in the fridge, but not just anywhere," explaining: "Warmer temperatures and frequent handling can speed up the decline of freshness-that's why it's said to treat your eggs gently. "On the other hand, keeping them consistently cold and undisturbed slows this down, and this method's stuck with me since my early culinary days." This is why Dean favours the fridge's cool environment, which ought to be maintained between three and five degrees Celsius (37F to 40F). According to the culinary professional, the "best spot" for eggs is within the main body of the fridge, rather than the door, reports the Express . "Temperature fluctuations from opening and closing the door can cause the whites to break down faster. This is a tip I picked up ages ago, and it truly makes a difference", Dean noted. Watery egg whites typically result from eggs losing carbon dioxide and moisture over time. Dean explained, "As an egg ages, it starts to lose moisture, and this affects the texture. Such changes can be subtle, but even a few days can affect your poached eggs." However, it's not solely refrigeration that maintains eggs' firmness and freshness at home. Dean observed that Fortnum & Mason consistently stores its eggs in their original cartons. He said, "That's key. The carton helps prevent the eggs from absorbing strong odours from other foods and shields them from light, which can break them down faster." He commented: "What fascinates me is that sometimes, the simplest steps are often overlooked, yet they make all the difference in food quality." Specialists at British Lion Eggs similarly prefer straightforward egg cartons rather than novelty holders or dedicated egg compartments in refrigerators. The packaging safeguards the eggs while displaying the best-before date. Yet Sophie Trueman, UK&I Country Director for Too Good To Go, emphasises this shouldn't be treated as a definitive deadline for disposal. These dates simply indicate optimal freshness. Unlike Use by or Expiry dates, which concern safety, Best Before dates allow some leeway, said Sophie. You can tell whether an egg has spoiled when you crack it. Fresh eggs possess a neutral, clean aroma, so if you notice a sulphurous or off-putting smell, it's advisable to throw the egg away. If the egg appears and smells normal, you can carry out a minor taste test. Prepare a small amount and sample it before deciding to consume the entire egg.