When bagging groceries, the best place for eggs is usually right on top of other items to protect them from damage.
The Ideal Position for Eggs
Placing eggs correctly in your shopping bag is crucial to prevent breakage. According to expert advice, the safest spot for a carton of eggs is towards the top of the bag.
As one reference notes, "Chambers says the ideal spot for eggs is on top of a bag that's anchored by heavy, stable items at the bottom."
Why Eggs Go On Top
This placement strategy protects the fragile eggshells from being crushed by heavier items. By placing them last or near the top, you ensure they aren't bearing the weight of canned goods, bottles, or other dense products.
Anchoring the Bag
To make the "eggs on top" method most effective, you need a stable base in the bag.
- Heavy, Stable Items: Place items like canned goods, jars, bottles, root vegetables (potatoes, onions), or boxes of pasta at the very bottom of the bag. These act as anchors, providing a solid foundation.
- Creates a Platform: These heavy items create a relatively flat surface for the lighter, more delicate egg carton to rest upon.
Best Practices for Bagging Eggs
To ensure your eggs make it home safely, follow these simple tips:
- Inspect the Carton: Before even bagging, check the carton in the store for any already cracked eggs.
- Bag Separately (Sometimes): If you have a lot of heavy items, consider giving eggs their own small bag, perhaps shared only with lighter, less fragile items like bread or chips.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Don't jam too many items into the bag with the eggs, even if they are on top. Pressure from the sides can still cause damage.
- Balance Weight: Ensure the bag is balanced and not too heavy to carry comfortably, reducing the chance of dropping it.
By following the principle of placing heavy, stable items at the bottom and delicate eggs on top, you significantly reduce the risk of ending up with broken shells and messy yolks.
