As an egg enthusiast, understanding the codes on egg cartons can greatly assist in selecting fresh and high-quality eggs. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements to look for:
1. Julian Date: This three-digit code indicates the packaging date of the eggs, starting with January 1 as 001 and ending with December 31 as 365. For example, a Julian date of 045 corresponds to February 14. Fresh eggs can be safely consumed within four to five weeks of this date when properly refrigerated.
2. Plant Code: Located near the Julian date, the plant code begins with a ‘P’ followed by four digits. This identifies the processing facility where the eggs were packed. In the event of a recall, this code helps trace the eggs back to their source.
