Many people wonder whether brown-shelled eggs or white-shelled eggs are more nutritious. Let’s find out! Specifically addressing this question, Dr. Crystal Scott, a nutritionist in Arizona, provided an analysis of the differences between brown and white shell eggs.
Firstly, she asserted that the color of the eggshell is unrelated to the nutritional content inside the egg. Whether an egg is nutritious or not depends on the diet and living conditions of the hen rather than the color of the shell. So, why do these colors differ? Dr. Scott explained that hens with red or brown feathers typically lay brown eggs, while white-feathered hens lay white-shelled eggs. 7 Some people question why brown eggs are often more expensive than white ones. Experts explain that the price difference doesn’t correlate with nutritional value. The reason behind the higher cost of brown eggs is due to the breed of hens that lay these eggs – they are larger-sized hens that require more food, space, and complex care, which contributes to higher market prices, not because they are more nutritious as many people assume.
Moreover, hens laying brown eggs take longer. This is because they need an extra stage for the eggshell to be coated with a brown pigment. These hens also lay fewer eggs.
All these factors can make breeding and maintaining hens that lay brown eggs more costly, ultimately raising the price.
According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), regardless of shell color, eggs are a source of protein, selenium, vitamin A, B vitamins, and choline that supports brain function. In terms of nutritional health, experts unanimously agree that there’s no difference between brown and white eggs. Both types contain similar amounts of protein, fat, and other nutrients.
So, what determines the nutrients in each egg, or do all eggs have the same nutritional content?
Experts responded that the nutritional content of an egg is largely determined by the hen’s diet and living conditions. Therefore, the crucial point for consumers to remember is to choose eggs produced by healthy, well-cared-for hens, regardless of their color.
Studies suggest that the healthiest eggs often come from free-range, pasture-raised hens. Eggs from hens raised on grass contain more omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and beta-carotene (vitamin A) compared to conventionally fed hens.
Dr. Megan Hilbert, a nutrition expert, stated, “It’s because they have a diet that closely mimics nature. These hens are also happier and healthier.”
In conclusion, eggs are a highly nutritious, hygienic, and cost-effective food source for everyone and are encouraged by nutrition experts to be part of a daily diet.
Some delicious dishes made from eggs:
Tomato egg soup
With only two main ingredients – eggs and tomatoes – and an additional 10 minutes, you can create a delicious and refreshing tomato egg soup that is rich in nutrients beneficial for health, such as vitamins A, D, etc.
Egg sunny-side up
This familiar dish, usually served as a breakfast, with a perfectly fried egg alongside a slice of bread and a little soy sauce or chili sauce, makes a high-quality morning meal.
Egg rolls with vegetables
Variety in taste comes from egg rolls combined with vegetables that will help you eat more rice than usual. The outer layer, the egg, is creamy and rich, while the inside consists of crispy vegetables, paired with fish sauce or soy sauce, making it incredibly delicious.
Scrambled eggs
This is a national dish for students. Simply beat an egg, add some finely chopped green onions, season with a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, and chicken powder, then fry until cooked. Enjoy it with white rice. This dish is delicious, simple to make, and doesn’t take much time.
Boiled eggs
This is another national dish. After boiling, peel and cut the eggs in half, then put them in a bowl of soy sauce, stirring gently. This dish is best served with a plate of boiled vegetables, blending flavors together to keep you wanting more.
Egg-fried rice
Combining egg with fried rice will add a vibrant yellow color to your plate, stimulating your taste buds. The creamy egg mixed with seasonings will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed if you were to just fry rice with oil.
