Brown eggs vs white eggs: Expert shares which ones are more healthy

Brown eggs are typically more expensive than white ones (Picture Credit: Pexels)

When you’re buying eggs from the store, lots of people wonder, are brown eggs healthier than white eggs? The difference in colour can easily create confusion regarding nutrition and quality. According to nutritionists, both kinds of eggs are beneficial — but there are slight variations in how they’re produced.

Eggs are a key food source around the globe, prized for their protein, vitamins and versatility. But one question that persists to this day is a confusing one for many consumers: are brown eggs better than white eggs? The controversy generally comes from their appearance, and pricing — brown eggs are typically more expensive than white ones.

But there are other variables that can very slightly change the nutritional content and flavour of eggs, such as diet, environment, even farming techniques. Knowing these differences can guide your decision-making when incorporating eggs into your day-to-day.

Dr Neha Kapoor, senior nutritionist at NutriLife Wellness Clinic, Noida says, “The hue of an eggshell has nothing to do with its nutrient content. It depends purely on the breed of the hen.”
Below, find the real differences between brown and white eggs including which truly is better for your health.

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Nutrition – Not Much Difference
-Both white and brown eggs contain 6–7 grams of protein/egg.
-Both share the same nutrients, such as vitamin B12, D and choline, and selenium.
-Colour does not affect nutrition, says Kapoor – it’s the freshness and sourcing that make a difference to the nutritional value of an egg.

Hens’ Diet Affects Quality
-In India, brown eggs are mostly sourced from country hens (desi murgi) or a free-range farm setting in which the hens are allowed access to eats like natural grains and insects.
-This diet may contribute to the yolk being a little darker and more flavorful.
-Most white eggs sold commercially are from hens that have been fed, resulting in a paler yolk and bland taste.

Cholesterol and Fat Content
-They have essentially the same amount of fat right around 5 grams and cholesterol, about 185 milligrams per egg.
-For healthy Indians, 1 egg per day is indeed safe in those with high cholesterol they should restrict consumption to 3-4 in a week boiled or poached is the best option.
Price and Accessibility in India
-Brown eggs are cheaper by 2-3 rupees per egg as the desi or brown-egg-laying hens eat more and also give a lesser number of eggs.
-Nutritionally, there is no justifying the cost difference but consumers like brown eggs as they think it’s “healthier” or “organic.”

Farming Practices and Freshness
-In India, brown eggs are generally associated with small-scale farms or backyard poultry, which are believed to be given fewer chemicals or hormones.
-White ones from commercial operations can still be top quality when properly handled and maintained fresh.
-Always make sure to check the pack date and avoid cracked shells to limit contamination.
Protein for Indian Diets
-For vegetarians or “eggetarians,” eggs are a cheap source of protein to offset carb-heavy Indian fare like rice, roti and dal.
-Both brown and white, the eggs do wonders for muscle strength, brain health and immunity – especially in children and the elderly.

“Colour doesn’t determine quality,” says Dr. Neha Kapoor, adding that what really matters is freshness, the way hens are raised and how they’re cooked. “An egg, boiled or poached — brown or white — can be one of the healthiest things about an Indian meal.”

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FAQs on brown eggs:

1. Are brown eggs healthier than white eggs?
No. Both have the same nutrients; shell color only depends on the chicken breed.

2. Why are brown eggs more expensive?
Brown-egg-laying hens are often larger and eat more feed, making production costlier.

3. Do brown eggs taste different from white eggs?
Not usually. Taste depends more on the hen’s diet and freshness than shell color.

4. Are brown eggs organic?
Not necessarily. “Organic” refers to how hens are raised and fed, not the egg color.

5. How should I store brown eggs?
Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.