Can I Eat Expired Century Egg?
Safe to eat up to 180 days after expiry
✅Fresh Century Egg
⚠️Spoiled Century Egg
🏠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
⚠️Signs of Spoilage
Extreme ammonia smell, mold growth, unusual texture
ℹ️Additional Information
Alternative Uses
Use in congee or salads
Possible Substitutions
Salted egg, pickled eggs
Additional Notes
Fermented for months, strong umami taste
Safety Warnings and Risks
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.
Expiration vs Best Quality
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.
Fun Facts & Cultural Insights
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.
Storage Hacks & Pro Tips
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.
Expiration Calculator
Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.