If you have never cracked open a pastured egg, you may have some trouble understanding what all the fuss is about. After all, how different can one egg be from another? The answer is – quite a bit. There’s a reason the farmer’s market stands are sold out if you aren’t there when they first open and why chefs and bakers alike look at pastured eggs as their secret ingredient. So, what’s the difference? Do they really merit the higher price tag? Let’s take a deeper look:
Pastured eggs pack a much higher nutritional punch
According to a 2010 study, pastured eggs surpass conventional eggs in nutritional value in almost every area. The study finds, “Compared to eggs of the caged hens, pastured hens’ eggs had twice as much vitamin E and long-chain omega-3 fats, 2.5-fold more total omega-3 fatty acids, and less than half the ratio of omega-6:omega-3 fatty acids (P<0.0001).…” Because the chickens are allowed to roam freely and dine on grubs and grass, they have greater access to more nutrient-dense feed. Their increased exposure to sunlight also leads to higher levels of vitamin D.
There’s no comparison when it comes to taste and appearance
Ask anyone who raises pastured chickens and they will tell you that there is a definite difference in taste. It’s hard to describe, but these eggs provide a denser, fresher, and yes, an “eggier” flavor. Some may argue that the difference is slight, or non-existent, so we urge you to see for yourself.
Less subjective than flavor is the egg’s appearance. Hens that have been allowed to roam freely produce an egg with a bright orange yolk, and a firm white. To truly see the difference, you really should compare the two eggs at home. To do this, gather two bowls, one conventional egg, and one pastured egg. Crack one egg into each bowl. Now, just stare in awe. The difference in yolk appearance is undeniable.
Helpful Tip: Though pastured eggs provide incomparable benefits, you may notice that pastured hard-boiled eggs are harder to peel. To fix this, try adding a couple of tablespoons of baking powder to the water when you boil your eggs. Also, pastured eggs become easier to peel as they get older. Try using your freshest eggs in your morning scramble and save the older eggs for boiling.
By choosing pastured eggs, not only are you choosing an egg that looks and tastes better but also one that is better for you and better for the chicken. Rafter W Ranch is proud to provide pastured organic, soy free, corn free eggs. Visit us today to see the difference.