Question

How long can we keep our hard boiled eggs refrigerated after they have been cooked and peeled, but still sealed in their shells with water inside so they don't dry out faster?

Answer 1

When hard-boiled eggs are cooked, peeled, and still sealed in their shells with water inside, they can be safely refrigerated for up to one week. The key to maintaining their freshness and quality is to store them properly.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to store hard-boiled eggs for maximum shelf life:

1. Cook the eggs until they are fully hard-boiled.
2. Allow the eggs to cool down to room temperature before peeling them.
3. Carefully peel the eggs, making sure to remove all the shell fragments.
4. Place the peeled eggs in a container or bowl filled with cold water. You can also add a pinch of salt to the water, which may help prevent the egg whites from becoming rubbery.
5. Seal the container with a lid or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent odors from the fridge from being absorbed into the eggs.
6. Store the container with the eggs in the refrigerator, preferably on a shelf rather than the refrigerator door for more consistent temperature.

Remember that hard-boiled eggs can become a potential source of foodborne illness if not handled and stored properly. If you notice any unusual smells, off-color appearance, or signs of spoilage, it's best to discard them.

If you're unsure about the quality of the eggs after being stored, you can perform a simple test before consuming them. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg in it. If the egg sinks and lies flat on its side, it's still fresh. If it stands upright on the bottom or floats to the surface, it's best to discard it.

Overall, always use your best judgment when consuming stored eggs, and if in doubt, err on the side of caution and discard them to avoid any potential health risks.