Raw dairy, when stored properly in the refrigerator, can last anywhere from 7 to 14 days. Raw cream and butter can often stay fresh for even longer, up to a month or more, due to their higher fat content. The key is keeping the dairy in airtight containers and stored at cold temperatures to preserve its freshness. Signs that raw milk has spoiled include a sour smell, thickened texture, or curdling, but even then, it can still be used for fermented dairy products like yogurt or sour cream.

Unwashed eggs can last up to 2-3 weeks when stored at room temperature on the counter, thanks to the natural protective bloom that seals the eggshell. If stored in the refrigerator, they can remain fresh for 3-6 months. To check if an egg has spoiled, use the "float test"—place the egg in water, and if it floats, it's likely gone bad. Fresh eggs will sink and lay flat at the bottom. Additionally, if an egg has a strong, unpleasant odor when cracked, it should be discarded.

Average shelf life

Unwashed eggs naturally have a protective coating called the "bloom" or cuticle, which seals the shell and prevents bacteria from entering the egg. This protective layer helps keep the egg fresher for longer, allowing it to stay safe at room temperature without refrigeration for several weeks. Washing eggs removes this bloom, making them more susceptible to contamination and shortening their shelf life. By keeping eggs unwashed, especially if they are clean and from a trusted source, you retain this natural barrier and significantly extend the freshness of the eggs, reducing the need for immediate refrigeration. In the UK and the European Union, it is actually illegal to wash eggs before selling them. The rationale behind this regulation is that eggs with their natural bloom intact are more effective at protecting themselves from external contamination than eggs that have been washed and sanitized. Instead, the emphasis is placed on maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness in the production process. By avoiding washing, UK eggs are safer and fresher for longer periods, often stored at room temperature in stores and homes without issue.

This contrasts with practices in the US, where eggs are washed and sanitized before sale, requiring refrigeration to prevent bacterial growth. The UK’s unwashed egg policy aligns with the idea that nature's design provides a robust form of protection, keeping eggs fresh and safe for consumption over extended periods.

preserving the bloom

Many conventional dairy practices in the US contribute to unhealthy products and environmental concerns. Large-scale dairy farms often use industrial methods that prioritize high production over animal welfare. Cows are frequently confined in cramped, unsanitary conditions and fed a diet heavy in grains, including GMO corn and soy, which can lead to poor health and the need for antibiotics. The overuse of antibiotics in dairy cows not only affects the quality of the milk but also contributes to antibiotic resistance in humans. Additionally, cows are often treated with synthetic hormones like rBST to boost milk production, which has been linked to potential health risks in humans.

The milk from these practices is typically pasteurized and homogenized, which can strip away beneficial enzymes, probiotics, and nutrients found in raw, grass-fed milk. These practices result in a less nutrient-dense product and raise concerns about the overall health impacts of conventional US dairy consumption. Ethical and sustainable dairy farming, focused on grass-fed, pasture-raised cows, offers a healthier alternative.

Raw dairy, when sourced from healthy, pasture-raised cows and handled with care, is not only safe but also packed with essential nutrients. Unlike pasteurized dairy, raw milk retains its natural enzymes, beneficial probiotics, and vitamins, such as A, D, K2, and B12, which can be diminished through heating processes. These enzymes aid in digestion, making raw dairy easier to tolerate for many individuals, including some who are sensitive to pasteurized milk. The probiotics in raw milk support gut health, while the unaltered fats provide a balanced source of omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and other essential fatty acids, contributing to heart and immune health. Consuming raw dairy from trusted farms that practice cleanliness and sustainability can be a nutrient-dense, wholesome choice for your diet.

why it's better

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