How to Store Egg Whites (And How Long Can They Be Stored For)

Rich in proteins and mineral salts and low in calories, the egg white is one of the two components of eggs, the white and gelatinous part that we find around the yolk and that acts as a natural protector and preservative. In the kitchen, very often, the yolk and the egg white are separated: whether it is to prepare a donut, a cream or biscuits, it happens that you find yourself with one or more egg whites and you do not know what to do with them. As always, we can recycle and reuse them or simply store them. How to do it? How long can we keep egg whites in the fridge? Can we freeze egg whites? Here's how to properly preserve egg whites and for how long can we preserve egg whites without them losing their nutritional qualities?

How to Store Egg Whites

Storing egg whites is very simple and, with the right care, we can keep them in the fridge or freezer for a more or less long time, the important thing is to follow some simple steps:

• Hygiene: egg whites must be stored in containers clean of food or chemical residues, preferably glass or rigid plastic; it is essential that they are sanitized to avoid contamination by bacteria, to which egg whites can be particularly subject.
• Lid: Before placing the container in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure it is tightly closed, preferably hermetically sealed. The reason is simple: oxygen activates the oxidation process and speeds up the deterioration of the egg whites.
• The label: if you decide to freeze the egg whites, don't forget to put a label on the container with the freezing date.
• Timing: you can store egg whites in the refrigerator for up to three days, or up to six months if you decide to freeze them.
• Defrosting: to defrost egg whites correctly, we recommend leaving them in the fridge overnight, to avoid excessive temperature changes.

Can You Keep Egg Whites in a Jar or in a Carton?

Yes, leftover egg whites can be stored, and the best container depends on how soon you'll use them. If you’re using them within a day or two, transfer them to a clean glass jar, which seals well and keeps them fresh. But if you’re holding on for longer, a glass jar in the fridge is ideal; egg whites are sensitive to temperature changes, so keeping them in a stable, cool environment prevents spoilage. Whatever you do, skip reusing the egg carton—it’s hard to clean and not designed for liquid, so save it for holding whole eggs, not their leftovers.