USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperRaw egg whites are a versatile ingredient that can elevate dishes from fluffy meringues to creamy sauces, but they come with a high-risk factor when it comes to food safety. Storing them in the fridge is crucial, as their shelf life is just four days—any longer poses serious health risks. Always prioritize freshness to enjoy their culinary benefits safely!
30 most common foods with instant answers. Print it and stick it on your fridge—completely free! Want more? Upgrade to the complete guide with 70+ foods.
"According to USDA guidelines, raw egg whites should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and used within 2-4 days for optimal safety."


Fridge
34-40°F (1-4°C)
Store in covered container. Keep refrigerated at all times.
4 days
365 days
Pink or iridescent color, cloudy appearance, off odor
Meringues, protein addition to smoothies
Powdered egg whites, egg substitute
The expiration date on raw egg whites indicates the date until which the product is expected to remain safe to consume. However, the best quality of raw egg whites is usually within 2-4 days of opening the container, as they can start to lose their texture and freshness over time. It's recommended to consume them as soon as possible for optimal quality.
To check if raw egg whites have gone bad, look for any unusual discoloration or a cloudy appearance. Smell the egg whites for any foul or sulfur-like odors. Lastly, gently touch the egg whites to feel for any sliminess or unusual texture.
Raw egg whites, just like raw eggs in general, pose a risk of Salmonella contamination. It's crucial to handle raw egg whites with care to prevent foodborne illnesses. Immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, young children, and elderly individuals are more susceptible to severe illness from foodborne pathogens. To minimize risks, use pasteurized egg whites or heat the egg whites to 160°F (71°C) to kill any potential bacteria.
To store raw egg whites properly, keep them in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent absorption of odors from other foods. It's also helpful to label the container with the date you opened it to track freshness. If you have leftover egg whites, consider freezing them in ice cube trays and transferring the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag for longer storage. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Egg whites have been used in various cultures for centuries. In French cuisine, meringues and soufflés showcase the versatility of egg whites. In Asian cuisine, egg white soups are popular for their delicate texture. Additionally, in many cultures, egg whites are used in cocktails to create a frothy texture, such as in Pisco Sour or Whiskey Sour.
Raw Egg Whites should not be consumed if left at room temperature for more than 1 hour. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in this environment, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. It's best to discard the egg whites to ensure your safety.
Once opened, Raw Egg Whites should be consumed within 2 days if stored in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and prevent contamination, tightly seal the container after each use and follow proper storage guidelines.
If Raw Egg Whites have been at room temperature for a short period, like 15-20 minutes, it's generally safe to use them. However, avoid prolonged exposure to room temperature to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Always refrigerate promptly.
The type of container can impact the shelf life of Raw Egg Whites. Use airtight containers or original packaging to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of odors from the fridge. Avoid storing Raw Egg Whites in containers that are not food-safe.
It's best to store Raw Egg Whites away from other dairy products in the fridge to prevent cross-contamination. Place them on a separate shelf or in a designated area to avoid any potential transfer of odors or bacteria.
Freezing Raw Egg Whites can affect their texture when thawed. They may become slightly watery or have a different consistency compared to fresh egg whites. To minimize texture changes, gently whisk thawed egg whites before using them in recipes.
The shelf life of Raw Egg Whites may vary slightly between brands due to factors like processing methods and packaging. Always refer to the expiration date on the packaging and follow storage instructions provided by the specific brand for optimal freshness.
Cooking Raw Egg Whites extends their shelf life compared to consuming them raw. Once cooked thoroughly, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, always ensure proper cooking temperatures are reached to kill any harmful bacteria.
Raw Egg Whites typically last longer when stored in cooler temperatures, such as winter, compared to warmer conditions like summer. During hot weather, it's crucial to refrigerate Raw Egg Whites promptly and monitor their freshness more closely to avoid spoilage.
When transporting Raw Egg Whites for a 3-hour trip, use a cooler with ice packs to maintain a cold temperature throughout the journey. Pack the egg whites securely to prevent spills or leaks. Upon arrival, promptly refrigerate them to preserve their quality.
30 most common foods with instant answers. Print it and stick it on your fridge—completely free! Want more? Upgrade to the complete guide with 70+ foods.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications.
Scan your food directly and get instant safety info using our AI-powered camera feature.
Ready-to-Eat Meals
View expiration date and storage guide →
Fruits & Vegetables
View expiration date and storage guide →
Herbs and Fresh Produce
View expiration date and storage guide →
Beverages
View expiration date and storage guide →
Beverages
View expiration date and storage guide →
Cooking Ingredients
View expiration date and storage guide →
Fruits & Vegetables
View expiration date and storage guide →
Meat & Poultry
View expiration date and storage guide →
Breakfast Foods
View expiration date and storage guide →
Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.