Why You Should Avoid Storing Eggs in the Refrigerator Door

Many households have the habit of keeping eggs in the refrigerator door, but experts advise against this common practice. Eggs are a highly nutritious food, rich in high–biological–value protein that is easy for the body to absorb. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, folate, vitamin B5, vitamin B12, vitamin B2, along with phosphorus, calcium, and zinc. Although eggs contain cholesterol, research has shown that the cholesterol found in eggs does not directly raise blood cholesterol levels.

In fact, including eggs in your daily diet is an effective way to increase levels of HDL—often called “good cholesterol.” HDL helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and other related health conditions. Several studies have found that consuming two eggs a day for six weeks can raise HDL levels by up to 10%.

Another important nutrient in eggs is choline, which plays a crucial role in building cell membranes and producing signaling molecules in the brain. These molecules are essential for regulating nervous system functions and supporting cognitive health.

Besides their nutritional value, eggs are extremely versatile and can be prepared in countless ways, making them a staple in many households. Because of this, families often store large quantities of eggs in the refrigerator. The door shelves seem convenient, but experts say this is actually one of the worst places to keep them.

Temperature Fluctuations in the Refrigerator Door

Vlatka Lake, a business manager at the food-storage company Space Station, explains that the refrigerator door has the most unstable temperature. Each time the door is opened, the temperature rises and falls rapidly. When eggs are stored in this zone, they spoil more quickly due to these constant fluctuations. In addition, the frequent opening and closing causes the eggs to shake and vibrate, which may degrade their internal quality.

Dr. Tạ Tùng Duy from the Vietnam Institute of Applied Medicine also emphasizes this issue. He notes that bacteria can easily grow when eggs are exposed to inconsistent temperatures, weakening the protective membrane on the shell and increasing the risk of contamination. This makes eggs more prone to spoiling and can even affect food safety.

The Proper Way to Store Eggs

The best method is to place eggs in a dedicated storage tray or container, preferably with a lid, to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods. The tray should be kept in the middle or deeper shelves of the refrigerator, where the temperature is more stable. Ideally, eggs should be stored at below 20°C to maintain freshness.

Dr. Phan Bích Nga from the National Institute of Nutrition adds that when a chicken egg is newly laid, it has a thin protective powdery coating. This layer helps prevent bacterial intrusion and increases the chances of successful hatching. However, despite this protective layer, eggs may still be contaminated because they pass through the same passage as feces during laying. For example, duck and goose eggs often carry large amounts of Salmonella, a bacteria associated with food poisoning.

Therefore, eggs purchased from markets should be cleaned before refrigeration, especially if they appear dirty. A quick rinse with clean water—or, even better, with lightly salted water—followed by thorough drying is recommended. If you buy eggs from supermarkets, they are usually pre-cleaned and sanitized, so washing them again is unnecessary.

Tips for Choosing High-Quality Eggs

1. Check the Shell

Start by examining the eggshell. A fresh egg generally has a clean, firm shell with consistent color. Avoid eggs with dark spots, discoloration, or pale patches, as these signs often indicate age or prolonged storage.

2. Feel the Texture

Gently run your fingers across the shell. Fresh eggs typically have a smooth, slightly glossy surface. Eggs that feel rough, chalky, or grainy may be older and less fresh.

3. Candle the Egg (Check Under Light)

Hold the egg up to a bright light source, such as a lamp or sunlight. Fresh eggs will have a small air cell, a firm yolk centered in the middle, and a thick, clear egg white. If the yolk moves freely or the air cell is large, the egg is likely older.

How to Keep Eggs Fresh for Longer

Although many refrigerators include egg shelves on the door, this placement is not ideal. Because the door is opened frequently, it becomes the warmest area in the fridge. This accelerates spoilage and reduces egg quality. Instead, store eggs on an inner shelf where the environment remains cool and constant.

For even better preservation, place eggs with the pointed end facing down. This position helps keep the yolk centered and reduces air exposure, extending freshness.