✅ How to Use the Julian Date Safely
Find the three-digit number on the short side of the carton (often near the USDA grade mark).
Convert it to a calendar date (a Julian date converter helps).
Use eggs within 3–5 weeks of that pack date.
When in doubt, throw it out—especially for dishes like quiche, hollandaise, custard, or tiramisu.
🥚 Bonus: Other Egg Carton Codes Decoded
| Marking | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Grade AA, A, B | Egg quality (AA = firm whites, round yolks) |
| Organic | Organic feed, no antibiotics, outdoor access |
| Cage-Free | Not kept in cages (may still be indoors) |
| Pasture-Raised | Outdoor access with roaming space |
| Plant Code (e.g., P-1234) | Identifies the farm for recalls |
🛡️ Tips to Prevent Egg-Related Illness
Never eat raw or undercooked eggs (unless pasteurized)
Cook egg dishes to 160°F (use a thermometer for quiche and custards)
Don’t leave eggs out longer than 2 hours (1 hour if over 90°F)
Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw eggs
Buy eggs with clean, uncracked shells
