Egg storage and handling

Eggs stored in fridge

Here's what you need to know about egg storage, and handling and cooking eggs safely:

  • Look for the British Lion mark to guarantee that the eggs have come from hens vaccinated against salmonella
  • Make sure that there is a best before date on the egg - this is not a legal requirement, but all British Lion eggs are date-stamped
  • Keep eggs in their original boxes when storing - this ensures any odours from surrounding foods are shut out
  • If you take eggs out of their box, make sure you store and use them in date order
  • Store eggs at a constant temperature below 20°C - this maintains freshness and quality. The fridge is the best place to keep them in domestic kitchens
  • Take them out of the fridge half an hour before cooking for the best results, otherwise the sudden change in temperature could crack the shell or lower its binding qualities in baking
  • Store away from strong smelling food - egg shells are porous
  • Store away from raw meat
  • Wash your hands before and after handling eggs
  • Never use dirty, cracked, or broken eggs
  • Do not re-use left-over egg dishes

Find out more about freezing eggs.

Find out more about egg safety.

Find out more about advice for mums and babies.