Almost everyone loves eggs. They are used in many of our favorite recipes and bring us joy and health. There are many things that you may not know about eggs and here we will mention a few things you think you should know.
They are very healthy
First, you should know that people who want to be healthy should consume eggs almost daily. They are rich in protein and what is even better is that they taste great. That is why for many people who want to get fit and who start bodybuilding, this next to chicken is their go-to meal. Every human should eat at least a couple of eggs every day so that our body has the nutrition it needs.
Different types of eggs
You should know that there are many different types of eggs that you can choose from. One of the most common types of eggs produced today is the one that is produced on large-scale farms. They offer a lot of health benefits, and they have a good flavor but many people decide not to buy them because of the way the hens are treated since they are always kept indoors. Free-range eggs are produced by hens that go outside. They are usually much tastier than the commoner type and they are healthier. Hens that produce organic eggs have the benefit of being fed organic materials. This means that the hen does not eat any pesticides, which entails that the quality of the eggs is much higher. Pasture-raised eggs are those where hens are allowed to roam freely on pasture and feed on what they can find there.
When it comes to barn laid eggs, the hens are kept indoors but they are not in cages so they are better than the conventional ones. No matter which type of egg you choose to buy, you will have benefits but you should know that there are better ones and that they are usually more expensive. You should be able to see different labels on the egg depending on which type it is. These labels can show you the way the hens have been treated and what type of egg you are looking at.
Egg grades
You should know that every egg that is being sold needs to have a grade that tells you how clean it is and what the quality is. The AA grade is the highest one. It is given to eggs that are perfect for consumption. A-grade eggs are not as good because of the whites but they are still of high quality. Grade B is the worst grade and it is usually used in producing different types of food. The higher the grade, the more expensive the egg is.
Nutritional content
Eggs are a great source of many nutrients vital for good health. There are about 70-80 calories, 6-7 grams of high-quality protein, and 5 grams of healthy fat in one egg. They contain minerals like selenium and zinc and are excellent sources of vitamins A, D, E, and B12. The body needs all of these nutrients for a wide range of processes, including building and repairing muscles and bones, enhancing brain function, and protecting against various diseases, so it is easy to conclude that eggs are very healthy and you should consume them regularly.
Color
The breed of the hen usually determines the nutritional value of the egg, so color typically has no bearing on it. It is not necessarily true that more brown eggs are healthier than white ones, as both of these varieties are just as healthy and provide all the necessary nutrients. When buying, you should rather focus on the eggs’ freshness, type, and farming methods, as color is not an indicator of quality.
Price
Organic, free-range, and pasture-raised eggs tend to be more expensive, while conventional ones are most often the budget-friendly option. Different factors, like feed quality, hen area, and environmental requirements, contribute to the eggs’ price. Those that support organic farming, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability usually have higher prices, but no matter the cost, all eggs are certainly a healthy addition to any diet, as all of them contain the necessary nutrients.
Environmental impact
The environmental impact of producing eggs depends on farming methods. Some industries that use synthetic fertilizers and pesticides contribute to soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction, while others that use organic and pasture-raised products are more eco-friendly. When hens are let to rear on pastures, it cuts down on feed crops and the emissions of greenhouse gases caused by feed production. This benefits many ecosystems, as these practices promote responsible land use and animal welfare. Also, buying such eggs helps fund agricultural practices that reduce negative effects on the environment, so people are recently turning more and more to such sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Taste and freshness
Be very careful about the eggs’ taste and freshness when buying them. Usually, organic eggs have superior taste and richness compared to conventional ones, as these hens have access to diverse diets and natural forage. Also, look for vibrantly cooked yolks and whites, as this is a clear sign of whether or not the egg is fresh. Keeping them properly refrigerated will guarantee the best flavor and texture. No matter what you prefer, conventional or organic, you must keep freshness and a wonderful taste in mind before buying eggs, so choose carefully.
Refrigeration
Refrigeration is a sure way to preserve the eggs’ quality and safety. Store them in the fridge at temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius, as this will help to prevent the spread of bacteria. Eggs can preserve their nutritional value, flavor, and freshness for longer in the fridge thanks to the colder temperature. You should also keep them in their carton for the best freshness and to prevent them from absorbing any strong tastes or smells from other foods.
When choosing eggs, you should consider factors like type, nutrition, and cost if you want to make the best decision. After all, whether you go with conventional or pasture-raised eggs, you can enjoy their nutritional value and health benefits that your body needs.