STORING FRESH EGGS--BACK TO BASICS 101

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You might have read our article from a few weeks ago on Raising Backyard Hens--Back to Basics 101

Today I wanted to briefly touch on what to do with those fresh eggs once your hens begin laying (usually at 4 to 6 months of age).  Our four hens usually give us one egg each per day BUT there are factors that affect that number.  They did slow down this winter, with the cold temperatures and limited sunlight (some add artificial light to the coop but we haven't so I can't speak to that).  Feed/nutrition can affect their egg production as well.  In the 100- degree temps that we are currently experiencing, most days we get four eggs but some only three (someone is laying down on the job haha).  As long as all the hens are eating and drinking and acting normally, it shouldn't be a concern.

STORING AND WASHING FRESH EGGS

Once you gather the fresh eggs that your hens have laid, you can simply place them in a previously used store-bought carton.  Some might store them in a basket or other container; for us, it is easier to store them in cartons and keep them on my counter.  I do have labels that I found on Etsy that has both info on storing, washing eggs, and a spot to write the date(s) of collection. The label is placed on the carton.

MAKE SURE YOU WASH YOUR HANDS AFTER HANDLING THE EGGS!

Melanie F Hardy via Pixabay

Don't wash the eggs till you are ready to use them--there is a protective coating on the eggs which should be kept in place!  If you do end up with an egg with obvious soiling (dirt, mud, chicken poo) you can always take a clean rag or brush and remove the offensive material.

By leaving the eggs unwashed, they can last unrefrigerated for approximately two weeks to four; unwashed eggs in the refrigerator can last for up to three months.  Washed eggs can be stored in the fridge for up to two months.  It's important to mark on your carton/container if the eggs are washed or unwashed and the date of laying.  When you do wash your eggs, simply run warm water over them.  However, I would suggest using the eggs left at room temp within two weeks as the quality can decrease.  Otherwise, you may want to refrigerate them.

 

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