Egg powder can save your life. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and a great choice for survival food. Not to mention, it also has a long shelf life. Many of you may be wondering – how long does egg powder last? Egg powder is convenient to store and easy to prepare. Like other survival foods, the shelf life of egg powder depends on several factors. Read on to find out exactly how long egg powder lasts. We’ll also share some tips on how to keep them fresh longer.
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What Is a Powdered Egg?
Egg powder is completely dehydrated eggs. Most are made by spray drying, the same process used to make milk powder. It appeared in popular literature as early as 1912, with its earliest application being camp cooking. Meanwhile, in Britain, egg meal was used as a ration during World War II.
Egg powder is popular among survivors, hikers, preppies, and campers and has many uses. You can use it in place of regular eggs in everyday cooking. From scrambled eggs to fried eggs, you can try different recipes with egg powder.
If you want to buy egg powder, please note that it comes in three types. You can choose from whole egg powder, egg yolk powder, and egg white powder. Many eggs are mixed with other ingredients, including sugar, flour, and salt, to add flavor to egg powder when cooked.
The Benefits of Powdered Eggs
For years, eggs have taken an unreasonable hit because of the cholesterol in the yolk. Although eggs contain cholesterol, consuming them wisely is actually healthy for most people because foods like bacon and sausage are not so good for the body. Eggs are rich in protein, vitamins A and D, and amino acids, and are also rich in choline, a key nutrient for brain development that is hard to come by in other foods. Egg powder is higher in sodium because sodium aluminosilicate is an anti-caking additive that allows egg powder to flow smoothly. If you have high blood pressure, keep the sodium content in mind.
Egg powders are a great option for vegetarians because they are one of the few non-meat foods that are a complete protein. Egg powder has a 25-year shelf life and can be used in a variety of recipes that call for eggs, including cakes, scrambled eggs, and casseroles. They can be used without rehydration when baking, or they can be rehydrated for dishes like omelets. If you’ve ever complained about the mess of using half an egg in a recipe, you certainly don’t have a problem with egg powder.
Powdered eggs are less expensive than fresh eggs, do not require refrigeration, and can be easily transported anywhere. Containers should be stored in a cool place. The many benefits of egg powder make it a must-have for survivalists and campers alike!
Related Post: Are Powdered Eggs Healthy? Advantages of Eating Them
How Long Do Powdered Eggs Last?
On average, powdered eggs will last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Some even claim that it can last 15+ years as long as it’s in an ideal location. Storing it in a cool and dark place will extend its shelf life. Refrigeration is not required as long as it has not been turned on.
Signs That Powdered Egg Has Gone Bad
Don’t guess if your egg powder is still safe to eat. Here are some things to look for.
- Watch out for discoloration. Once the egg powder is spoiled, it will turn black. You will notice that it turns yellowish or brown once it passes the shelf life.
- The texture will also change. When it’s in good shape, it’s soft and powdery, similar to flour. However, if the situation worsens, it will clump. The powder will become sticky and inconsistent.
- A bad smell is another sign that the egg powder is no longer in good condition. Discard immediately if it smells sour or foul.
- You can also test the freshness of the powdered egg by adding water to the bowl. If they sink, that means it’s still fine. On the other hand, once it floats, it’s broken.
Tips For Making Powdered Egg Last Longer
Proper storage and handling are critical to maintaining the freshness of egg powder. Here are some of the best things to do.
- Divide the egg powder into small batches. That way, you only have to touch what you use that day. This prevents cross-contamination.
- Store in an airtight or airtight container. This will stop the oxygen permeation which can destroy the quality of the egg meal over time.
- If possible, keep it in a hard container. If you put it in a plastic bag, even the slightest sting can make a mess.
- Keep egg powder in a cool dry place. Heat and humidity can accelerate its decay.
- Adding an oxygen absorber to a container of egg powder will help extend its shelf life. It has iron powder that prevents oxidation. This will minimize the possibility of moisture in the container.
Conclusion
How long can egg powder last? Egg powder can be kept for 5 to 10 years. This egg substitute will stay fresh even when it’s not in the refrigerator. Nonetheless, pay attention to proper storage, such as keeping it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.