Expiry Date on Eggs Mandatory from April 1 to Boost Food Safety

A new regulation mandates stamping expiry and laying dates on eggs from April 1, aiming to improve food safety, transparency and consumer awareness in the market.

Lucknow | March 17 2026: In a major step toward strengthening food safety standards, the Uttar Pradesh government has made it mandatory for egg producers to stamp both the expiry date and the date of laying on every egg starting April 1.

The move is aimed at ensuring transparency in the sale of eggs and protecting consumers from unknowingly purchasing stale or unsafe products. Officials from the animal husbandry department stated that the decision was taken after multiple instances were reported where old eggs were sold as fresh in local markets.

Under the new rule, every egg sold in the state must clearly display its production (laying) date along with its expiry date. This will allow consumers to easily determine the freshness and safety of the product before purchase. Authorities believe the initiative will empower buyers to make informed choices and reduce health risks associated with consuming spoiled eggs.

Strict action has been outlined for those who fail to comply with the regulation. Eggs without proper date markings may either be destroyed or labelled as “not fit for human consumption,” ensuring that unsafe products do not reach consumers.

Experts have highlighted that eggs have a limited shelf life, making such regulations crucial. Typically, eggs remain safe for consumption for about two weeks at room temperature, while proper cold storage between 2°C and 8°C can extend their usability up to five weeks.

The regulation also brings attention to storage practices. According to food safety norms, eggs require specific temperature conditions and cannot be stored alongside vegetables, as both require different environments. Limited cold storage infrastructure has been identified as a challenge, but authorities have stressed that compliance with safety standards is essential.

Officials say the decision is not just regulatory but also a step toward increasing accountability among producers and traders. By mandating clear labelling, the government aims to curb malpractice in the supply chain and ensure that only safe and fresh food reaches consumers.

The new rule is expected to significantly improve hygiene standards in the egg trade while enhancing consumer confidence. Authorities have urged producers and sellers to prepare for implementation before the April 1 deadline, as strict enforcement is expected across the state.

Follow us On Our Social media Handles :
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

Also Read- Pune