If you’re someone who loves to cook and bake, you may have come across liquid egg whites as an ingredient in a recipe. But if you’re not using them immediately, you might be wondering how long they’ll last in your fridge.
Liquid egg whites, also known as egg white substitute, are a convenient way to use egg whites without having to separate the yolk from the white yourself. They’re often sold in cartons and can be used in a variety of dishes, from omelets to cakes and muffins.
But how long do they last once they’re opened? Can you freeze them for later use? Here’s what you need to know about the shelf life of liquid egg whites.
How Long Does Liquid Egg White Last?
When it comes to liquid egg whites, the shelf life will depend on whether or not they’ve been opened. If the carton is still sealed, liquid egg whites will typically last for about three to five weeks in the fridge. This is because they’ve been pasteurized, which helps to preserve the egg whites and keep them fresh for longer.
However, once you open the carton of liquid egg whites, their shelf life will be much shorter. In this case, you should use them within a few days, or freeze them for later use. To freeze liquid egg whites, simply pour the desired amount into a freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
When it comes time to use the frozen liquid egg whites, thaw them in the fridge overnight before using them in your recipe. It’s important to note that frozen liquid egg whites may not whip up as well as fresh egg whites, so they’re best used in dishes where the texture isn’t as important.
How do I know if liquid egg whites are bad?
We already know that liquid egg whites are a convenient and healthy alternative to whole eggs, but like any perishable food, they can go bad. So how can you tell if your liquid egg whites have spoiled? Here are a few key signs to look out for:
The most obvious sign of spoiled liquid egg whites is a foul odor. If your egg whites have a strong, off-putting smell, they are likely no longer safe to consume.
Another telltale sign of spoiled egg whites is a change in texture. Fresh egg whites are smooth and viscous, but if they have gone bad, they may become watery or clumpy.
If you notice any discoloration in your egg whites, this is another indication that they have gone bad. Fresh egg whites are a pure white color, so if you see any yellow, green, or other colors, it’s best to throw them out.
If your liquid egg whites have been stored at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, they are likely no longer safe to eat. Egg whites should always be refrigerated, and once they have been left at room temperature for too long, they can develop harmful bacteria.
Do Egg Whites Go Bad In Fridge?
Like any other perishable food, egg whites can go bad if not stored properly. So, the question is, do egg whites go bad in the fridge?
The answer is yes, egg whites can go bad in the fridge. In fact, it’s important to store egg whites in the refrigerator to prevent them from going bad.
Egg whites are made up mostly of water and protein, with very little fat. This means that they are susceptible to spoilage from bacteria and other microorganisms. When stored at room temperature, bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to food poisoning.
To prevent this, it’s important to store egg whites in the refrigerator. This will slow down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, keeping your egg whites fresh for longer.
But even in the refrigerator, egg whites can go bad if not stored properly. Here are a few tips for storing egg whites to keep them fresh:
- Store egg whites in their carton: Egg whites should always be stored in their carton, as this will protect them from air and light. When egg whites are exposed to air, they can dry out and become less effective as an ingredient.
- Keep egg whites in the main compartment of the fridge: The main compartment of the fridge is the coldest part, and this is where you should store your egg whites. Avoid storing them in the door of the fridge, as this is the warmest part and can cause your egg whites to spoil faster.
- Use egg whites within a few days of opening: Once you open a carton of egg whites, it’s important to use them within a few days. If you’re not sure when you opened the carton, it’s best to err on the side of caution and use the egg whites as soon as possible.
When Should You Throw Out Egg Whites?
It’s important to properly store and handle egg whites to avoid any potential food poisoning or illness. Here are a few guidelines to help you determine when it’s time to throw out egg whites:
- If the egg whites are past their expiration date, throw them out.
- If the egg whites have an unusual odor or appearance, throw them out.
- If the egg whites have been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, throw them out.
It’s best to use egg whites as soon as possible after they are separated from the yolk. This will help ensure that they are fresh and safe to use. If you need to store egg whites for later use, it’s best to refrigerate them in an airtight container. Be sure to use them within a few days to avoid any potential spoilage.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety. If you’re unsure whether your egg whites are still good, it’s best to throw them out to avoid any potential health risks.
What Happens If You Eat Old Egg Whites?
First, it’s important to know how to tell if your egg whites are no longer fresh. Fresh egg whites are clear and slightly viscous, while old egg whites may become cloudy and watery. They may also develop an unpleasant odor or a slimy or sticky film on the surface. If your egg whites look or smell off, it’s best to throw them out and use fresh ones instead.
Consuming old or spoiled egg whites can cause food poisoning, as they may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. These bacteria can cause symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. In some cases, food poisoning can be severe and may require hospitalization.
However, it’s important to note that not all old or spoiled egg whites will necessarily make you sick. In many cases, the egg whites may simply lose their flavor and texture, making them less than ideal for cooking. If you’re unsure about the quality of your egg whites, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard them.
If you want to avoid using old egg whites in your cooking, there are a few simple steps you can take. First, check the expiration date on the carton before you buy it, and make sure to use the egg whites before that date. You can also store your egg whites in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life, and make sure to use them within a few days of opening the carton.
Can You Eat Expired Egg White Carton?
Many people have likely found themselves in the situation where they come across an egg white carton in their fridge that has passed its expiration date. The question on their mind is probably, “Can I still eat it?”
The short answer is no, you should not eat expired egg whites from a carton. While egg whites are generally safe to eat, even when they have been sitting in the refrigerator for a while, consuming egg whites that have gone past their expiration date can increase your risk of food poisoning.
Egg whites are a popular choice for people looking to add protein to their diet without the added fat and calories that come from the yolk. They are also commonly used in baking, as they can add volume and structure to a recipe.
However, even though egg whites are considered a healthy food, they can also harbor harmful bacteria if they are not handled properly. When egg whites are pasteurized (a process that involves heating the eggs to a high temperature in order to kill any harmful bacteria), they are safe to eat even after their expiration date. However, unpasteurized egg whites, like those found in cartons, should not be consumed past their expiration date.
If you have an egg white carton that has expired, it is best to throw it away to avoid the risk of food poisoning. While it may be tempting to try to salvage the egg whites by using them in a recipe, it is not worth the risk. If you want to be on the safe side, only use pasteurized egg whites that have not expired.
Conclusion
In summary, the shelf life of liquid egg whites depends on whether or not they’ve been opened. If they’re still sealed, they’ll last for about three to five weeks in the fridge. Once opened, they should be used within a few days or frozen for later use. Frozen liquid egg whites will last for up to six months in the freezer.
