The Science Behind Egg Freshness
Eggs are a staple in most households, whether for breakfast or baking. But have you ever wondered how to tell if an egg is fresh? The answer is simple: do the float test. The float test is a quick and easy way to determine an egg’s freshness.
How to Perform the Float Test
To perform the float test, fill a bowl with water and place the egg in it. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat, it is fresh. If the egg stands on one end on the bottom, it’s still good to eat. But if the egg floats to the top, it’s no longer fresh and should be discarded.
Why Does the Float Test Work?
The float test works because as an egg ages, the air cell inside it grows larger. When the egg is fresh, the air cell is small, and the egg sinks to the bottom. As the egg ages, the air cell grows larger, causing the egg to float.
How Farm Fresh Eggs Compare
Now that we know how to test an egg’s freshness let’s explore whether farm fresh eggs are any different.
What are Farm Fresh Eggs?
Farm fresh eggs are eggs that come from hens raised on small farms, where they are given free range to roam and eat a natural diet. These eggs are often sold at farmers’ markets or directly from the farm.
Are Farm Fresh Eggs Better?
There is a common misconception that farm fresh eggs are always better than store-bought eggs. While there are some benefits to farm fresh eggs, such as a potentially higher nutrient content, it’s not always the case.
Do Farm Fresh Eggs Float?
So, do farm fresh eggs float? The answer is yes, they can. The float test is not a foolproof method of determining an egg’s freshness, as there are other variables to consider, such as how the egg was stored and how old it is.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the float test is a simple and effective way of determining an egg’s freshness. While farm fresh eggs can float, it’s not always an indicator of their freshness. It’s important to consider other factors, such as how the egg was stored and how old it is, before deciding whether it’s safe to eat. So, the next time you’re wondering if your eggs are fresh, give the float test a try!