After working in grocery stores for years, one thing I’ve noticed is that most shoppers grab a carton of eggs without ever looking closely at the codes printed on it. But here’s the truth: those little numbers and letters aren’t random at all—they actually tell you how fresh your eggs are and even where they came from. If you love cooking with eggs, this detail can make a huge difference in your kitchen.
Why Egg Freshness Matters
Eggs are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. From fluffy omelets and creamy custards to decadent cakes and savory fried rice, the quality of your eggs affects the flavor, texture, and overall success of your dish.
That’s why it’s worth learning how to decode the carton before tossing it into your cart.
The Julian Date – The Key to Freshness
The most important number to look for on your egg carton is the three-digit Julian date.
This number represents the day of the year the eggs were packed.
For example:
001 = January 1st
365 = December 31st
Knowing this helps you track how fresh your eggs really are—something that the “sell by” or “expiration date” doesn’t always reveal.
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