Egg know-how
How to tell if an egg is really fresh
The float test, the shell, the yolk, and why distance matters more than you think.
By the NIKO team · 12 Oct 2026 · 4 min read
Most of us crack an egg without a second thought. But a few simple checks tell you a lot about how fresh it really is, and you can do all of them in your own kitchen.
1. The float test
Fill a bowl with cold water and gently place the egg in it. A fresh egg sinks and lies flat on its side. An older egg tilts up, and a stale one floats. That’s because an air pocket inside the egg grows bigger with every day it sits.
2. Look at the shell
A fresh shell looks slightly matte and feels a little rough. Very shiny or powdery shells are usually older. Skip any egg with cracks, since bacteria can get in.
3. Crack it open
On a flat plate, a fresh egg has a tall, round yolk and a thick white that holds its shape. An older egg spreads out flat and runny.
The freshest egg is usually the one that travelled the shortest distance.
Why distance matters
Most eggs sold in Assam travel three to four days in a truck before they reach a shop. NIKO eggs are laid on our own farm in Assam and usually reach your shop in about two days. Fewer days on the road means a fresher egg in your kitchen.
