Can I Eat Expired Century Egg?

Safe up to 180 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 180 days after expiry

Low Risk

Expert Source

"Century eggs should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below and consumed within 1-2 weeks for optimal safety and quality, according to CDC guidelines."

Fresh Century Egg

Fresh Century Egg

⚠️Spoiled Century Egg

Spoiled Century Egg
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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Pantry

Ideal Temperature

Room temperature

Best Storage Method

Store in a cool, dark place

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

365 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Extreme ammonia smell, mold growth, unusual texture

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Use in congee or salads

Possible Substitutions

Salted egg, pickled eggs

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Century Egg?

Century eggs have a long shelf life due to the preservation process. The expiration date on the packaging indicates the date until which the eggs are guaranteed to be safe to consume. However, the best quality of century eggs is usually achieved when they are consumed within a certain timeframe after the preservation process. While century eggs technically do not expire in the same way as perishable foods, their flavor and texture may deteriorate over time, affecting the overall quality of the product. For the best taste and texture, it is recommended to consume century eggs within a few months of production.

How can I tell if Century Egg has gone bad?

To determine if Century Egg has gone bad, look for any signs of mold growth on the surface, as well as a strong off-putting odor. Fresh Century Eggs should have a jelly-like texture, while spoiled ones may appear slimy or discolored. Trust your senses and discard if in doubt.

What are the food safety risks with Century Egg?

Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs or hundred-year-old eggs, are a traditional Chinese delicacy made by preserving duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks to several months. The preservation process alters the taste, color, and texture of the eggs. While century eggs are generally safe to eat, there can be a risk of contamination if proper hygiene and food safety practices are not followed during the preparation or storage process. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, make sure to purchase century eggs from reputable sources, store them properly, and consume them before the expiration date.

What are some pro tips for storing Century Egg?

To store century eggs properly, keep them in their original packaging or transfer them to an airtight container. Store the eggs in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature between 33-40°F (0-4°C) to maintain their quality and safety. Avoid exposing century eggs to strong odors or flavors as they can absorb these aromas easily. If any mold develops on the surface of the century egg, it is recommended to discard the egg to prevent any potential foodborne illness. When serving century eggs, it is common to peel off the outer layer and slice the egg into wedges or cubes for presentation.

Any interesting facts about Century Egg?

Century eggs have a history dating back over 600 years in China. Despite their name, century eggs are not actually aged for a hundred years. The name 'century egg' is a mistranslation of the Chinese term 'pidan,' which means preserved egg. Century eggs are often enjoyed as a delicacy in Chinese cuisine, where they are commonly served as a side dish or used in various recipes. The unique taste and texture of century eggs make them a popular ingredient in congee, salads, and other traditional dishes.

Expiration Calculator

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Sources

For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.

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Recipes Available

We have recipes that can help you safely use century egg past its expiration date!

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Reviewed By: Food Safety & Expiration Experts

At Can I Eat Expired, we are committed to providing accurate, science-backed information about food expiration and storage safety. Our content is carefully reviewed based on guidelines from leading food safety organizations, including:

🔍 How We Ensure Accuracy

  • We use official food safety sources to guide our recommendations.
  • Our team continuously reviews and updates content based on the latest research.
  • We encourage users to always check for signs of spoilage and follow proper storage guidelines.

📚 Have Questions?

If you have specific concerns about food expiration or safety, we recommend consulting a registered dietitian, food scientist, or your local health department.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.