Is An Egg Good If It Sinks Or Floats

Is An Egg Good If It Sinks Or Floats?

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious food, but how do you know if they're still fresh? One common way to check is to place the egg in a glass of water. If the egg sinks to the bottom, it's generally considered to be fresh. If it floats, it's usually an indication that the egg is older and may not be as safe to eat.

So, why does an egg float or sink? The answer lies in the air cell inside the egg. As an egg ages, the air cell gradually gets larger, which causes the egg to become more buoyant. This is because the air cell displaces water, so the egg takes up more space in the glass and becomes lighter. As a result, the egg will float higher in the water or even float to the surface.

However, it's important to note that the float test is not a foolproof way to determine the freshness of an egg. There are other factors that can affect the buoyancy of an egg, such as the temperature of the water and the size of the egg. For example, eggs that are stored in cold water will sink more quickly than eggs that are stored in warm water. Additionally, larger eggs will float more easily than smaller eggs.

If you're unsure whether an egg is still good, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it. Eating a bad egg can cause foodborne illness, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Here are some other ways to check the freshness of an egg:

Smell the egg. Fresh eggs should not have any noticeable odor. If an egg smells sour or sulfuric, it's likely gone bad.
Crack the egg open. The yolk of a fresh egg should be firm and round, and the white should be clear and thick. If the yolk is runny or the white is watery, the egg is probably not fresh.
Look for cracks or dents. Fresh eggs should have a smooth, unblemished shell. If an egg has any cracks or dents, it's best to discard it.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you're only eating fresh eggs.