Yes—but not in their shells.
Whole eggs expand as they freeze, which can crack the shell and increase the risk of contamination.
Instead, crack the eggs into a clean container, gently beat them together, and freeze them in an airtight freezer-safe container.
You can also freeze separated egg whites or yolks if a recipe only uses one part.
Frozen eggs are excellent for future baking and cooking, although their texture may change slightly after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat eggs that sat out overnight?
No. If refrigerated eggs have been left at room temperature overnight, food safety experts recommend discarding them, even if they appear normal.
Are brown eggs safer than white eggs?
No. Shell color depends on the breed of the hen and has no effect on food safety, nutrition, or freshness.
Can you tell if an egg has Salmonella by looking at it?
Unfortunately, no.
An egg contaminated with Salmonella usually looks, smells, and tastes completely normal.
That’s why proper storage and cooking are so important.
Is it safe to eat raw eggs?
Raw or lightly cooked eggs carry a higher risk of Salmonella infection.
If a recipe requires raw eggs, such as homemade Caesar dressing, tiramisu, or fresh mayonnaise, consider using pasteurized eggs, which have been heat-treated to reduce harmful bacteria.
The Bottom Line
If refrigerated eggs have been sitting on the counter, the two-hour rule is easy to remember.
Leave them out for more than two hours—or more than one hour if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C)—and the safest choice is to throw them away.
Although it may feel wasteful to discard a few eggs, the risk of foodborne illness simply isn’t worth it.
Keeping eggs refrigerated, handling them carefully, and cooking them thoroughly are some of the easiest ways to protect yourself and your family from Salmonella and other foodborne bacteria.
The next time you discover a forgotten carton sitting on the kitchen counter, you’ll know exactly what to do—and you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from following proven food safety guidelines.
