What the Numbers on Your Egg Carton Really Mean — And Why Ignoring Them Could Make You Sick

Nausea

Vomiting

Abdominal cramps

Diarrhea

Salmonella does not change an egg’s appearance, smell, or taste.

It also isn’t destroyed by cracking, mixing, or baking unless the dish reaches a safe internal temperature.

Egg dishes must reach 160°F (71°C) to kill bacteria

A quiche that looks set may still be undercooked in the center

🧪 Fact: Salmonella can be inside the egg before the shell forms—so washing the shell won’t make it safe.

✅ 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).