Drop the egg into a bowl of water and watch what happens.
As eggs age, a tiny air pocket inside grows larger. This natural change affects how the egg behaves in water, giving you a quick and clear indicator of its freshness.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Do Nana’s Water Test
Fill a bowl with cold water deep enough to submerge the egg.
Gently place the egg into the water.
Observe its behavior:
Sinks and lays flat on the bottom: Very fresh.
Sinks but stands upright: Still safe, but use it soon.
Floats to the top: No longer fresh—discard it.
This easy test takes just seconds but offers peace of mind.
Why This Trick Works
As eggs age, moisture evaporates through their porous shells and the internal air cell expands.
A fresh egg is dense and sinks.
An older egg stands upright or floats due to the larger air pocket.
It’s a simple application of basic physics and chemistry.
Other Methods for Checking Egg Freshness
While Nana’s water test is the easiest, there are a few other methods:
Candling: Shining a light through the egg to check the air cell (used by farmers).
Crack Test: Fresh eggs have firm yolks and thick whites.
Shake Test: If you hear sloshing when shaking, the egg is likely old.
Though effective, these methods either need experience or special tools—making the water test the clear winner for everyday cooks.
Common Myths About Egg Freshness
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