When we walk through the aisles of a grocery store, many of us grab items like eggs without thinking twice. We've become so accustomed to the quality and safety standards of our food supply that the mere appearance of a clean, intact carton on the shelf is often enough assurance that what's inside is good. But should that be enough?

With something like eggs, there’s more to consider than just the exterior of the carton. Inspecting your egg carton before you make your purchase can help ensure you're bringing home a high-quality product and getting value for your money.

1. To check for any broken or cracked eggs, which can lead to potential health risks and make a mess in your refrigerator.

2. To ensure that the eggs are fresh. Even though eggs have a good shelf life, fresher eggs are better for some recipes and uses.

3. To verify that the eggs are of a consistent size, which is important for recipe accuracy and uniform cooking.

4. To ensure the eggs have clean shells, as dirty shells can indicate poor handling and potential contamination.

When opening an egg carton in the store, here's what you are looking for:

- First and foremost, gently lift each egg to ensure none are stuck to the carton, which might indicate a leak from a crack.

- Look closely for hairline fractures as well as more obvious breaks or cracks. These imperfections can allow bacteria to enter and can compromise the safety of the egg.

- Check for consistency in egg color and shape, although variations should not necessarily be a deal-breaker unless you need very uniform eggs for a specific purpose.

- Touch the eggs to ensure they are clean and the shells are rough to the touch – a sign that they haven't been overhandled.

- Review the sell-by or expiration date if available, remembering that eggs are typically good for a few weeks beyond this date if kept properly refrigerated.

- Some egg cartons also have a pack date, usually listed as a Julian date (001 for January 1st through 365 for December 31st), which tells you how fresh the eggs are.

- Confirm that all the eggs in the carton are the same size, as differences can affect cooking results.

- Note that while size designations like 'large' or 'extra-large' are regulated, there is some variation within those categories.

- Ensure there are no signs of dirt, feathers, or droppings on the eggs, which can carry bacteria.

- While most eggs are now washed and sanitized before packaging, it's still worth checking for cleanliness.

Lastly, keep in mind that an informed consumer is a safe and satisfied consumer. By taking a moment to inspect the egg carton before you add it to your basket, you can avoid potential disappointment or health concerns that may come from not examining what you buy. It’s a simple step that requires only a few seconds, yet it can make a significant difference in the quality of your purchase.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove