Poultry Judging Practice Test

Within how many days should eggs ideally be used after laying?

1. 7 days

2. 10 days

3. 14 days

4. 21 days

The correct answer is: 14 days

The ideal timeframe for using eggs after they are laid is 14 days. This recommendation is based on the importance of freshness and quality in egg consumption. Eggs within this period retain their taste and nutritional value, and cooking with fresher eggs generally results in better texture and structure in recipes. After about two weeks, the quality may begin to decline, which can affect taste and freshness, and make them less desirable for culinary purposes. In addition, eggs stored at room temperature or under appropriate refrigeration conditions can maintain their quality better when used within this optimal timeframe. Using eggs beyond 14 days may still be safe if properly refrigerated, but their flavor and cooking properties may not be as satisfactory. Understanding this window of quality helps in preventing food waste and ensures the best experience in cooking.