Many people may think that brown eggs are slightly more expensive, so they must be more nutritious, right? Is this statement correct?
Two key factors in egg nutrition: feed and the health of the chickens
According to Taiwan’s Council of Agriculture, there is no direct correlation between eggshell color and the nutritional value of eggs. Different colors are mainly related to the breed and genetics of the chickens. The nutrition of eggs depends on the feed supply and the health of the chickens, rather than just looking at the color or size of the eggshell.
The price difference between boxed washed eggs in supermarkets is significant. Many people believe that the more expensive the eggs, the more nutritious they are, with brown eggs being even more expensive. The Council of Agriculture points out that the main source of white eggs is the Hy-Line chicken, which has a high egg-laying rate and has become the mainstream in the market. There are fewer breeds that produce brown eggs, such as Isa Browns, Rhode Island Reds, and Hy-Line Browns. Consequently, the quantity of brown eggs produced is lower, leading to relatively higher prices in the market.
Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration states that the nutritional value of eggs depends on the feed consumed by the chickens and their health conditions. Eggs are rich in protein, lecithin, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, and are easily digested and absorbed, making them a nutritious and economical natural food.
As for the color of the egg yolk, it is related to factors such as the breed of the chicken and the feed formula. For example, feeding yellow corn, green feed, β-carotene, etc., can change the color of the egg yolk, making it darker. There may be some minor differences in trace nutrients, but the main protein components are similar.
The nutrition of egg yolk and egg white differs. Egg whites have lower calories and almost no fat, while egg yolks are rich in fat and also contain more fat-soluble vitamins and trace nutrients. It is recommended not to be picky and only eat egg whites to obtain balanced nutrition.
According to the “Daily Dietary Guidelines” of Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, generally healthy individuals can eat one egg a day. However, those with high cholesterol, a history of arterial blockages, obesity, or fatty liver need to pay attention to the amount of eggs consumed. When buying eggs, pay attention to two key points: cleanliness and integrity.
Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration reminds the public to pay attention to the cleanliness and integrity of eggshells when purchasing eggs. There are many microscopic pores on the surface of eggshells. If there are cracks or residual chicken feces on the surface, bacteria can easily enter the egg liquid, posing a risk.