Can I Eat Expired Century Egg?
Safe to eat up to 180 days after expiry
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

⚠️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
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
Sources
For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.
Recipes Available
We have recipes that can help you safely use century egg past its expiration date!
View Recipes →Related Foods
More from Canned & Jarred Goods
Chicken Commercially Canned or in Vacuum Pouch Opened
View storage guide →
Canned Beans
View storage guide →
Canned Chickpeas
View storage guide →
Gherkin Pickles Commercially Jarred Sold Unrefrigerated Unopened
View storage guide →
Opened Canned Baked Beans
View storage guide →
Chicken Commercially Canned or in Vacuum Pouch Unopened
View storage guide →
Applesauce Unopened
View storage guide →
Gravy Beef Commercially Bottled or Canned Opened
View storage guide →
Unopened Canned Split Pea Soup
View storage guide →
Similar Storage Requirements
Dried Thyme
Cooking Ingredients
View storage guide →
Fig
Fruits & Vegetables
View storage guide →
Almond Paste
Baking Supplies
View storage guide →
Oatmeal Cereal
Baby Food
View storage guide →
Umeboshi Japanese Pickled Plums
Fruits & Vegetables
View storage guide →
Basmati Rice
Grains & Pasta
View storage guide →
Honey Dijon Salad Dressing Commercially Bottled Sold Unrefrigerated Opened
Condiments & Spices
View storage guide →
Malt Powder
Baking Supplies
View storage guide →
Cookies Packaged
Snacks & Sweets
View storage guide →
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:
- ✅U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) – Food Safety Guidelines
- ✅United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Food Storage & Expiration Dates
- ✅World Health Organization (WHO) – Foodborne Diseases & Safety
- ✅Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) – Preventing Foodborne Illness
🔍 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.