How to Check if Eggs Are Safe to Eat Before Boiling

*Islamabad (Daily Qudrat):* Eggs, a nutritious staple of the daily diet, can appear the same on the outside whether fresh or spoiled, making it essential to test them before consumption. Spoiled or contaminated eggs can pose serious health risks. Experts also warn that eggs may contain prohibited antibiotic residues like nitrofuran, which can cause health problems if consumed over time.

Here are seven simple home methods to check egg freshness and safety:

1. **Water Test (Float Test)** – Fill a bowl with cold water and place the egg in it. If it sinks and lays flat, it is fresh. If it stands upright at the bottom, it is older but still usable. If it floats, it is spoiled and should be discarded immediately.

2. **Smell Test** – A bad odor indicates the egg is spoiled and should never be consumed.

3. **Shell Inspection** – Check the shell for cracks, stickiness, or mold, which are signs of spoilage.

4. **Shake Test** – Hold the egg close to your ear and shake it gently. No sound indicates freshness, while a sloshing sound suggests the egg is old.

5. **Break and Inspect** – A fresh egg has a round yolk with a firm membrane and thick egg white. Discoloration or abnormal appearance means the egg should be discarded.

6. **Check Dates** – Eggs from farms or supermarkets often have a stamped expiration date. Always check this date and store eggs in the refrigerator.

7. **Light Test (Candling)** – Shine a light through the egg in a dark room. Fresh eggs allow more light to pass, while older eggs appear cloudy inside.

Using these simple methods can help ensure eggs are safe and healthy to eat.