For how long did you think that white and brown eggs just differed in colour and had no significant, unique qualities? And for how long have you been opting for the white eggs just to be safe? If this is why you are here, then get ready to find out how the two differ and which you should choose.
Why are eggs healthy?
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Eggs are one of the most ideal sources of protein. According to the USDA Food Data Central, a standard egg contains around 74 calories, 6 g of protein, 5 g of fat and less than 1 g of carbs. Not only protein, they also provide the body with vitamin A, biotin and antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for the eyes and choline, which supports the brain and nervous system, making them a healthy addition to the daily diet.
What is the difference between white and brown eggs?
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According to Alison Kane, a registered dietitian and wellness program manager at Mass General Brigham, the main reason why eggs come in a variety of colours, such as brown, white, cream or speckled, is because of the breed of the hen that laid the egg. These are some factors that differentiate the two:Shell colour: As Kane said, the colour of the egg shell differs because of the breed of the hen. For example, Leghorn chickens lay white eggs, whereas Rhode Island Red chickens lay brown eggs.Nutritional value: The nutritional value of both eggs is the same. It only differs if you are choosing eggs with omega-3 enrichment, where the feed of the chickens is enhanced to increase the omega-3 in the eggs.Taste: The colour of the eggs has no impact on their taste, and they taste the same. The flavour always depends on the chicken’s feed, which is why some eggs have a deeper orange yolk or an intense flavour.Cost: Many develop a belief that just because brown eggs are costlier, they are better. On the contrary, their high cost stems from the hens that lay brown eggs which are larger and eat more food.
Which is healthier: White or brown eggs?
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According to the USDA, the nutrition levels don’t significantly differ in white and brown eggs. What affects their nutrition is their size. The USDA notes that jumbo eggs have 90 calories and 8 g of protein, and medium ones contain 60 calories and 6g of protein.The factors that should influence your egg purchase should not be the colour but the hen’s diet, such as organic, omega-3 enriched, their housing conditions, such as pasture-raised, free-range, cage-free and certifications such as grade AA, A or B.
