Eggs 101
Eggs are a nutritious, convenient, and versatile food that fit easily into a well balanced diet. Packed with high quality protein and essential nutrients, eggs are simple to prepare and easy to incorporate into everyday meals.
Eggs are a nutritious, convenient, and versatile food that fit easily into a well balanced diet. Packed with high quality protein and essential nutrients, eggs are simple to prepare and easy to incorporate into everyday meals.
Egg Nutrition
Eggs are an excellent choice for people of all ages. One large egg provides about 6 grams of high-quality protein and roughly 70 calories, along with multiple vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Eggs are one of the most concentrated food sources of choline, and they also supply DHA and the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which support brain and eye health.
Egg whites provide lean, high quality protein. Egg yolks contain most of the egg's vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, choline, and carotenoids. The fat in the yolk helps the body absorb these fat soluble nutrients.
For most people, eating a whole egg delivers the broadest nutritional benefit.
Nutrition in an Egg Shell
Egg Safety and Storage
Be sure to store your egg carton in the coldest part of the refrigerator - not in the door, where temperatures can fluctuate. Eggs should be refrigerated within two hours of purchase and should be stored in their original carton so you can verify the Julian date, the date the eggs were packed, and the expiration date. The Julian date can be found on the short side of the carton and ranges from 001 (January 1) to 365 (December 31).
Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator at 45°F or lower for three to five weeks.
Cooking Tips
When cooking with eggs, be sure to start with a clean area and utensils to help prevent the spread of bacteria. Hands, utensils, cooking equipment, and surfaces should be washed with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after contact with food.
But eggs should never be washed, as they are properly washed and sanitized before packaging.
Cook eggs until both the yolk and white are firm for general safety. For dishes containing eggs mixed with other ingredients (custards, casseroles, quiches), cook to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure safety. Use a food thermometer for mixed dishes when possible.
There are many ways to enjoy eggs! Check out these simple cooking tips for all egg types:
Cook eggs in a pan until no visible liquid remains.
You can also make scrambled eggs in the oven.
Cook eggs in a pan until the egg whites are completely set, and the yolks are thick, but not hard.
Try this fool proof recipe for fried eggs.
Cook eggs gently in simmering water until the egg whites are completely set and the yolks are starting to thicken but are not hard.
Follow this full recipe for poaching an egg
Egg Farming in Virginia
Virginia egg farmers are committed to producing fresh, wholesome eggs for families across the state and the country. Approximately 372 million eggs are produced in the state in a variety of housing methods, including conventional, cage-free, free-range, and pasture-raised.
No matter the housing method, all hens are cared for as Virginia's farmers follow proper animal care and biosecurity practices.
Animal Care
All hens have access to a continuous supply of fresh food and water, and veterinary or animal care teams are always available to ensure all flocks are healthy and properly monitored.
Biosecurity
Virginia egg farmers follow strict biosecurity practices to protect flock health and ensure safe, high quality eggs. These measures include limiting barn access, keeping facilities clean and sanitized, and monitoring flocks closely for any signs of illness.
Environment and Sustainability
In addition to properly caring for flocks, Virginia egg farmers also prioritize proper care for the land and their surrounding communities. By following best management practices for water, land and soil, and by keeping the air clean, farmers ensure the land is preserved for many generations to come.