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Powdered eggs can save your life. It is easy to prepare and nutritious, making it an excellent option for survival food. Not to mention, it also has a long shelf life. Many of you are probably curious – how long do powdered eggs last?
Like with other survival foods, the shelf life of powdered eggs depends on several factors. For instance, proper handling and storage can significantly make it longer-lasting. Read on to find out how long exactly powdered eggs are good for. We’ll also share some tips on how to keep them fresh longer.
How Long Do Powdered Eggs Last?
On average, powdered eggs will last anywhere from five to 10 years. Some are even claiming that it can last longer than 15 years, provided that it is in an ideal location. Storing it in a cool and dark place will extend its shelf life. There is no need for refrigeration, as long as it is not yet opened.
Similar to other dehydrated dairy products, it is prone to spoilage in the absence of proper handling. More about its proper storage will be discussed later.
How It Compares to Other Egg Products
Of all the types of eggs, powdered eggs are the ones with the longest shelf life. Whole eggs can last only up to three weeks from the time that you put them in the refrigerator. Hard-boiled eggs, meanwhile, will last up to a week in the fridge. Meanwhile, raw egg whites and yolks will only last three weeks.
For eggs that you bring camping, they will not last more than a week because of the absence of a fridge. It is best to cook them before you leave your house to prevent the shell from breaking while also making it easier to last longer.
What Is a Powdered Egg?
Powdered eggs are fully dehydrated eggs. Most of them are made through spray drying, which is the same procedure for making powdered milk. As early as 1912, it has already made appearances in popular literature, with most of its earliest applications being camp cooking. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, powdered eggs were used as rations during World War II.
Popular amongst survivalists, hikers, preppers, and campers, powdered eggs have many uses. You can use it in everyday cooking as a substitute for regular eggs. From scrambled eggs to omelets, you can experiment with different recipes using powdered eggs.
If you are thinking of buying powdered eggs, take note that it is available in three types. You can choose from whole egg powder, egg yolk powder, and egg white powder. Many are mixed with other ingredients, including sugar, flour, and salt, which can add flavor to the powdered eggs when cooked.
Benefits of Powdered Egg
Not convinced that powdered eggs should be essential for backpacking or camping? Below are some of the benefits that might make you change your mind.
Long Shelf Life
This is the biggest benefit of using powdered eggs, especially when you compare it to regular eggs. You do not even need to refrigerate it to last a long time, making it ideal for the outdoors. As mentioned above, it can last five to ten years with proper storage. As long as you store it in a cool and dark place, it can withstand the test of time.
Nutritious
Powdered eggs can provide the nutrition that you need even if they are not real eggs. On average, it can provide up to 13% of your daily recommended calcium intake.
Plus, every serving contains approximately 21.07 grams of protein. This is almost half of the recommended daily protein intake of 50 to 65 grams per day.
It is also a great source of minerals that are necessary for your daily diet. For instance, it contains 481 milligrams of sodium and 286 grams of potassium.
You don’t have to feel guilty when eating powdered eggs because they are low in calories. One serving only has 357 calories, which is roughly equal to one egg.
Nonetheless, powdered eggs do not contain vitamins.
Portable
Whether you are hiking, camping, or even just traveling by car, bringing eggs can be a hassle. They have fragile shells, so careful handling is a must. Otherwise, you will end up wasting them.
One of the best things about powdered eggs is that they are portable. They are lightweight and in powdered form, so you don’t have to worry that they will break. Even if you are moving a lot, the powdered eggs will stay safe and sound in a container.
Minimal Risk of Contamination
Another good thing about powdered eggs is that they reduce the risk of contamination. It is less prone to infestation of bacteria compared to raw eggs, provided that you store and handle it with care.
Easy to Use
Cooking powdered eggs is quick and easy, even if you are not a pro in the kitchen. You can enjoy versatile recipes. It is also mess-free, unlike eggs that can be sticky and dirty during preparation.
Signs That Powdered Egg Has Gone Bad
Do not be left guessing if your powdered egg is still safe for consumption or not. Below are some of the things to look for.
- Watch out for discoloration. Once powdered eggs go bad, it will darken. You will notice that it is turning yellowish or brownish once it is past its shelf life.
- The texture will also change. When it is in good condition, it is soft and powdery, similar to flour. However, if it goes bad, it will have clumps. The powder will turn sticky and inconsistent.
- An unpleasant smell is another indication that the powdered egg is no longer in a good condition. If it smells sour or off, discard it immediately.
- You can also test the freshness of powdered eggs in a bowl with water. If they sink, then it means that it is still good. On the other hand, once it floats, it has gone bad.
Making Powdered Egg Last Longer
Proper storage and handling are important to retain the freshness of powdered eggs over time. Below are some of the best things to do.
- Separate the powdered eggs in small batches. This way, you will only be touching what you will use for the day. This can prevent cross-contamination.
- Store in an air-tight or sealed container. This will prevent oxygen penetration, which can ruin the quality of the powdered eggs over time.
- If possible, keep it in a hard container. If you store it in a plastic bag, even the slightest pricks can create a mess.
- Keep the powdered eggs in a cool and dry place. Heat and humidity can speed up its spoilage.
- Adding an oxygen absorber in the container with powdered eggs will help extend its shelf life. It has iron powder that will prevent oxidation. This will minimize the possibility of having moisture in the container.
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Conclusion
How long do powder eggs last? Powdered eggs can last five to 10 years. This egg substitute will remain fresh even if it is not in the fridge. Nonetheless, pay attention to proper storage, such as by keeping it in an airtight container and storing it in a cool and dry place.
