Eggs are one of the best sources of protein. According to the USDA Food Data Central, a standard egg contains about 74 calories, 6g of protein, 5g of fat, and less than 1g of carbohydrates.

In addition to protein, eggs provide vitamin A, biotin, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for the eyes, and choline, which supports the brain and nervous system. Therefore, eggs are a healthy food to include in your daily diet.

What is the difference between white and brown eggs?

According to Alison Kane, a registered dietitian and wellness program manager at Mass General Brigham, the main reason eggs come in different colors, such as brown, white, cream, or speckled, is the breed of hen that lays them.

Here are some factors that differentiate these two types of eggs:

Shell color:

As Kane mentioned, the color of the eggshell varies depending on the hen breed. For example, Leghorn chickens lay white eggs, while Rhode Island Red chickens lay brown eggs.

Nutritional value:

The nutritional value of both types of eggs is the same, differing only if you choose omega-3 enriched eggs, where the chickens' feed is supplemented to increase the omega-3 content in the eggs.

Taste:

The color of the egg doesn't affect the taste, and they taste the same. The flavor always depends on the chicken's feed, which is why some eggs have darker orange yolks or a richer flavor.

Price:

Many believe that just because brown eggs are more expensive, they are better. In reality, their higher price stems from the fact that the hens that lay brown eggs are larger and eat more feed.

The main reason eggs come in different colors, such as brown, white, cream, or speckled, is the breed of hen that lays them. Photo: Bui Thuy

Are brown or white eggs better?

According to the USDA, the nutritional levels of white and brown eggs are not significantly different. What affects their nutrition is size. Large eggs contain 90 calories and 8g of protein, while medium eggs contain 60 calories and 6g of protein.

The deciding factor when buying eggs should not be the color but the hen’s diet, such as organic, omega-3 enriched, the farming conditions, such as free-range, and certifications like grade AA, A, or B.

My Y (Times of India)