Hard-boiled eggs can last up to 7 days in the refrigerator when stored properly, whether they are peeled or still in their shells
. Storage tips for maximum freshness:
- Keep them in their shells until ready to eat to protect against bacteria and prevent odor absorption
- Store eggs in a sealed container or cover with plastic wrap or cling film to maintain moisture and freshness
- If peeled, keep them moist by covering with a damp paper towel inside the container
- Refrigerate eggs within two hours after cooking to prevent bacterial growth
- Hard-boiled eggs should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 90°F)
Additional notes:
- Freezing whole hard-boiled eggs is not recommended as the whites become tough; however, yolks can be frozen for later use
- Although some anecdotal reports mention eating boiled eggs after a month if refrigerated, the safe guideline is to consume within one week
In summary, for safety and best quality, consume hard-boiled eggs within one week of cooking when refrigerated properly.