How Long Does Eggs (Raw, in Shell) Last?
Fresh raw eggs in their shell, store-bought or farm fresh.
The Short Answer
Eggs (Raw, in Shell) lasts 21–35 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology
The sell-by date on the carton is for the store, not for you. Eggs are typically good for 3-5 weeks after purchase when kept refrigerated. The float test is your friend.
How to Store Eggs (Raw, in Shell)
Keep in original carton on a shelf inside the fridge, not in the door. The carton protects eggs from absorbing odors and the door is the warmest spot.
How to Tell if Eggs (Raw, in Shell) Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that eggs (raw, in shell) has spoiled: float in a bowl of water (fresh eggs sink), sulfur smell when cracked, watery or discolored whites.
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored eggs (raw, in shell) stays safe for 21–35 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been.
Frequently Asked Questions
Place the egg in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs sink and lay flat. Older eggs stand upright. If it floats, discard it.
No. The door is the warmest part of the fridge and experiences the most temperature fluctuation. Store eggs on a middle shelf in their original carton.