Egg yolks Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 hours
1 hour if above 90°F
In the fridgeFridge
2–4 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
12 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Egg yolks last 2–4 days in the fridge and 12 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if egg yolks are bad
Smell
A sulphur smell when cracked — unmistakable, discard.
Shell
Slimy, powdery or cracked shells.
Inside
Pink, green or iridescent whites or yolks.
Float test
Shows age only. A floating egg is old; check the smell before deciding.
Egg yolks past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened egg yolks 2–4 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
For perishable egg yolks, the storage clock matters more than the label: if it has been in the fridge longer than 2–4 days, discard it even before the printed date.
How to keep egg yolks fresh longer
- Keep eggs in their carton on an inside shelf, not the door.
- Store at 40°F (4°C) or below; do not wash them before storing.
- Refrigerate hard-boiled eggs within 2 hours of cooking.
More about egg yolks
FAQ
How long does it take for egg yolks to go bad?
2–4 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper. At room temperature, 2 hours.
Can egg yolks expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened egg yolks 2–4 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad egg yolks?
Spoiled perishable food can cause food poisoning: nausea, vomiting, cramps or diarrhoea. See a doctor if symptoms are severe or last more than a few days.
How do you keep egg yolks from going bad?
Keep eggs in their carton on an inside shelf, not the door.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number