We've all been there: staring into the fridge, holding a carton of eggs, wondering… do eggs go bad? The answer is yes, but it's not always as simple as the date on the carton. That "sell-by" date is more about peak freshness for retailers than an expiration date.
Generally, refrigerated eggs are safe to eat for **3-5 weeks** *after* the pack date (not the sell-by date!). Of course, use common sense! A cracked or slimy egg should be tossed immediately.
Want to double-check? Try the float test! Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks and lies flat, it's fresh. If it sinks but stands on one end, it's still good but use it soon. If it floats, toss it! The floating is due to increased air in the egg as it ages. While not always a guarantee of spoilage, it's a strong indicator it's past its prime. So, crack on with confidence and enjoy those eggs!