All About the Incredible Egg

By Joni Hargrave / Photography By Olivia Hayo | September 11, 2018

A perfectly balanced, affordable protein source, the egg boasts boundless uses as a breakfast staple, the brunch VIP (very important protein), and as the literal glue in the science of baking. Consumed around the world, the egg knows few boundaries and is the best part of many crowd-pleasing dishes. For the healthiest and best-tasting eggs, look for local, pasture-raised eggs whenever possible. Not only is this the best option for your community and for Mother Earth, but it’s the best thing for the hens. Happy hens lay incredible eggs.

NUTRITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

Yielding six grams of high-quality protein per serving, whole eggs pack in quite a few impressive health benefits. While the egg white contains all protein, the yolk contains many essential nutrients, like selenium and zinc for proper thyroid and immune function.

Credit:Svetlana-Cherruty

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

It’s estimated that the US consumes 250 eggs per person per year. Considering that our population has reached upwards of 300 million, it’s important to opt for the smallest carbon footprint possible by purchasing local, ethically produced eggs from farmers committed to the principles of sustainable agriculture.

MORE THAN ONE BIRD KNOWS HOW TO LAY AN EGG

Da-Le Ranch also offers quail, guinea, pheasant, duck, and turkey eggs.

BUYING GUIDELINES

Marketing has had a heyday with attention-grabbing callouts on egg cartons. Unfortunately, most of the phrases—particularly “cage free,” “free range,” and “no antibiotics”—mean absolutely nothing. Thankfully, Chloe Nevarez of Eben-Haezer Poultry Ranch has some helpful tips to ensure you are purchasing the highest quality eggs that are handled by humans, not machines.

Chloe’s Tips

First and foremost: Know where your eggs are coming from. Who’s the farmer? Can you call them? Can you visit the farm? Transparency is key.

Pasture-raised: This phrase is often misused for marketing purposes. If the claim is true, however, that means hens—like our hens—are outside and free to roam 100% of the time. Eben-Haezer hens are even rotated regularly for access to fresh foraging and to boost soil regeneration.

Reference the Cornucopia Institute: If you are limited to major supermarket chains, visit this online egg scorecard to see how various brands rank. We are proud to claim our ranch ranks #2 in the nation.