When choosing between different-colored eggs at the market, the important thing is not the color of the shell but the nutritional quality inside.
Are brown eggs or white eggs more nutritious?
According to expert Bethany Thayer, the color of the eggshell does not affect the nutritional value of the egg. The color of the eggshell depends on the breed of the chicken and genetic factors. Although there is a difference in color, the nutritional composition of the yolk and the white of different eggs is almost the same.
There is not a significant difference in nutrition between white and brown eggs. However, free-range eggs, meaning hens that are allowed to spend more than 50% of their time outdoors or eggs from pastured hens, are generally of higher quality. According to expert DeGore, some studies have shown differences in the microbial flora between different types of eggs, with free-range eggs having higher levels of healthy fats and lower levels of saturated fats.
As for organic eggs, although the feed does not contain synthetic chemicals, antibiotics, and growth hormones, there is no significant difference in nutrition compared to other types of eggs.
Expert Thayer states that the nutritional value of eggs primarily depends on the nutrient content in the feed for hens. The color of the yolk is created by carotenoids, antioxidants. Supplementing the feed with carotenoids can make the yolk darker and richer in antioxidants. Hens can also be fed foods high in omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin D.
Expert DeGore believes that the nutritional differences between different types of eggs are not significant. Therefore, the most important thing is to choose the type of eggs that you prefer. Organically raised and free-range hens may be better than caged hens because they ensure cleanliness. However, when purchasing eggs, the most important thing is to choose the freshest eggs.
In Vietnam, red eggs are often considered to come from industrial caged hens, while white eggs are considered to come from domestic breeds. However, there are actually types of eggs that have a better taste, especially when the hens are free-range and fed natural food without using commercial feed. Therefore, the nutritional factors do not vary much, but the taste is different. This is why the prices of different types of eggs are not the same.
When storing eggs, avoid placing them on the refrigerator door as they can break and the temperature may not be consistent. It is best to store eggs in the refrigerator compartment. If you have a large number of eggs, you can wrap them in newspaper or bury them in bran to maintain a stable temperature. At the same time, eggs should not be kept for too long before use to avoid the risk of bacterial contamination.
No significant differences exist in the nutritional content of white and brown eggs. However, free-range eggs, from hens allowed outdoors for over 50% of the day, or those from pastured hens, tend to be of superior quality. These eggs have been shown to possess higher levels of healthy fats and lower saturated fat content, according to studies cited by expert DeGore.
Organic eggs, while free from synthetic chemicals, antibiotics, and growth hormones in the feed, do not offer a significant nutritional advantage over other egg types. The nutritional value of eggs primarily depends on the nutrient content of the feed given to hens, as stated by expert Thayer.
Yes, it can be influenced to some extent. The color and antioxidant content of the yolk, for instance, can be enhanced by supplementing the feed with carotenoids. Additionally, feeding hens foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin D can boost the nutritional profile of the eggs they produce.
Expert DeGore asserts that the nutritional differences between egg types are negligible. Therefore, consumers should base their choices on personal preferences. Organically raised and free-range hens may be preferable to caged hens for hygiene reasons. Nonetheless, the most critical factor when purchasing eggs is freshness.
In Vietnam, red eggs are often associated with industrial caged hens, while white eggs are linked to domestic breeds. However, these color perceptions do not indicate nutritional superiority. Taste differences may exist, particularly with free-range eggs from hens fed natural food instead of commercial feed, but nutritional factors remain largely consistent across egg types.
Eggs should be stored in the refrigerator compartment, not on the door, to prevent breakage and maintain a consistent temperature. For a large number of eggs, wrapping them in newspaper or burying them in bran can help stabilize the temperature. It is also essential to use eggs promptly to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination.