**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making a transition. We want this to be a “safe space” for participants to learn. For that reason, we reserve the right to delete any comments that are not handled in this manner.
There have been many reports in recent years as to whether or not organic eggs are better than conventional eggs. Most of the reports I’m sure you have seen have stated there is no difference. Except there are great nutritional differences between the two.
- Eggs from pastured hens have twice as much vitamin E and 2.5 times more omega-3 fatty acids than conventional caged eggs.
- Pasture-raised eggs contain 4 to 6 times as much vitamin D as conventional caged eggs. Hello, sunshine!
- Caged hen eggs are 21% more likely to be contaminated with salmonella due to the fact that being in the caged environment can stress their immune systems.
- Organic pasture-raised eggs are free from arsenic, which if you have seen in the media today seems to be popping up everywhere.
- Neither “Free Range”, “Cage Free” nor “Natural” are regulated terms that require third-party regulations or certification. Therefore ANYONE can claim their eggs are so without any question.
- “Pasture-raised” is also not regulated, however, if you buy your eggs at the farmers market or from a local farm, you can simply ask or look around.
- “Omega 3 enriched” also not regulated, however, you can look on the nutrition label and see amounts.
Pasture hens soaking up the sun
- “Certified Humane” and “Animal welfare approved”are third-party auditors to ensure the hens are getting the best treatments possible and the advertising is correct.
- “Organic” is regulated by the USDA and farmers follow strict rules and pay a certification fee.
There you have it – an education on the incredible edible egg. Now, what will you choose?
June Week One Action Item:
- Buy a dozen or half dozen eggs this week that are local (if possible) pasture-raised and organic. See if you can tell a difference in the taste, texture, color, etc.
June Get Real:
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