Eggs are of different types. They are an essential part of everyday diet worldwide. But they are not eaten by vegans who are concerned about animal welfare. Free range eggs are one of the types of eggs available in the supermarkets. What does the term mean? Are these eggs healthier? In what way are they better than the other regular eggs?
What are free range eggs?
Poultry farms mostly keep hens in cages for their eggs. They feed them artificial feeds and collect the eggs they lay. But these are unnatural conditions for the birds.
Free roaming hens (Source: Delish)On the other hand, free range eggs are laid by hens that are allowed free access outdoors during the day. The hens move freely out in the open during the daytime. They return to the barn only at night time for safety reasons. Their eggs are nutritious compared to the regular ones. They contain more useful nutrients and have less of unhealthy fats in them. Here are six reasons that you should buy them.
Nutritional facts
These eggs have better nutrition compared to regular eggs. They have lower cholesterol and lower saturated fat content. Moreover, they have higher beta-carotene, more vitamin A, more omega 3 fatty acids, more vitamin E, and more vitamin D.
Each egg has six g of protein, 70 mg omega 3 fatty acids, and higher lutein and zeaxanthin levels. The latter two are antioxidants that protect the eyes against macular degeneration in later years of life. Moreover, they have higher amounts of choline. And this supports memory and cognitive function. Nerve function is also better with it.
Free range eggs (Source: Meatigo)Higher vitamin D
These eggs have around three to six times more vitamin D compared to other eggs, a 2009 study revealed.
This sunshine vitamin strengthens bones and teeth. It improves immunity and also regulates the insulin levels. Having eggs in breakfast is healthy.
Happier birds
The eggs are produced but not at the cost of any compromise on the physical or mental happiness of the birds. Hence, these eggs would appeal to animal activists and those concerned about animal welfare. Free range implies the birds have access to healthy feeds, adequate drinking water and are allowed to roam freely anywhere. That would make the birds happy and healthy. And these would lead to better quality eggs.
Lowers cholesterol
These eggs have one third less cholesterol than regular eggs. Regular eggs have 423 mg of cholesterol whereas these free range ones contain only 277 mgs. Thus, it leads to lower blood bad cholesterol levels.
Free range eggs (Source: Farm made foods)Satiety level
These eggs have 72 calories in one egg and 6 g of protein. Hence it can make one feel full after a meal and yet not add calories or fat to the body. Thus weight conscious people can benefit from eating them. They will not feel hungry until lunchtime.
Also, read Make Deviled Eggs With Bacon (Keto, Whole 30, Low-Carb)
Photogenic appearance
These eggs have a deep yellow yolk. This is because the hens have a varied and healthy diet and are themselves healthy. No antibiotics or animal products are fed to the birds. The eggs look lovely on the breakfast plate. Enjoy them heartily.