Egg Freshness Calculator
Enter the Julian date code from your egg carton to check how fresh your eggs are.
Look for a 3-digit number on the short end of the carton (001 = Jan 1, 365 = Dec 31)
Enter a Julian date code (001-365) to check freshness.
Water Float Test Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Julian date on egg cartons?
The Julian date (also called pack date) is a 3-digit number (001-365) printed on egg cartons representing the day of the year the eggs were packed. January 1 = 001, February 1 = 032, December 31 = 365. It is the most reliable indicator of egg freshness and is required on USDA-graded eggs.
How long are eggs good after the sell-by date?
Eggs are typically safe to eat 3-5 weeks past the sell-by date when refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. The sell-by date is set at no more than 30 days after packing. USDA guidelines state eggs can be stored 4-5 weeks beyond the pack date. Always do the water float test if uncertain.
How does the water float test work?
Place the egg in a bowl of cold water. Fresh eggs sink and lie flat on the bottom. Eggs 1-2 weeks old sink but tilt slightly upward. Eggs 2-3 weeks old stand upright on the bottom. Eggs that float to the surface are old (but not necessarily spoiled). The test works because the air cell inside the egg grows larger as the egg ages and moisture evaporates through the shell.
Can you eat eggs after the expiration date?
Yes, in most cases. If refrigerated properly, eggs remain safe 3-5 weeks past the pack date. The "expiration" or "best by" date is a quality indicator, not a safety deadline. Do the float test and crack into a separate bowl — a bad egg has an unmistakable sulfur smell.