Fresh farm eggs have what is called a bloom or cuticle. It is an invisible protective membrane over the shell. It seals the egg from oxygen and bacteria. Grocery store eggs do not have this protective layer and thus do no las as long.

For longest lasting eggs do not wash your eggs until you are ready to eat them! Wash and rinse them carefully in warm water without soap.

Washed eggs last about 2 months in the refrigerator. Unwashed eggs can last about 2 weeks on the counter and about 3 months in the refrigerator.

If you decide to wash your eggs before storing them make sure they are completely dry before placing them back in the container.

Fill a bowl with about 5 inches of cold water and gently place your eggs inside. Very fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lay on their side. If an egg stays at the bottom but stands on its small end, it’s still fine to eat; just not quite as fresh.