Eggs are a great source of protein, and inculcating the habit of eating eggs in your kids is extremely important so that they can continue to get their source of essential protein as they grow up. However, today, don’t you find yourself confused when you make it to the supermarket and are left wondering which eggs you should pick up because there are just so many varieties to choose from.
It is important that you are aware of what all these different labels mean and how they are applicable to you. Grade A eggs are sold every where, if they are available in stores, they have to be Grade A, so that is not a criteria that you should go by. The below list identifies for you what different labels mean so that you can pick the best eggs for your children’s nutritional needs.
Organic
If the eggs have been certified as being organic only by the US Department of Agriculture, it means that the hens that have laid the eggs were never subjected to antibiotics, and the feed that is given to them was 100% free of pesticides, chemicals and fertilizers. Labels with a state agency name may have different standards.
No Antibiotics
The Food and Drug Association or FDA disallows the use of antibiotics, however they are permitted, if the chicken falls ill. If the eggs happen to be a part of the National Organic Program, it means that no antibiotics were used.
No Hormones
Eggs should ideally be hormone free, as the FDA has strict instruction for no use of hormones. This label should definitely be ignored and not be the base of your choice.
Naturally Raised or Natrual
This label to does not have any special relevance, and again your purchase should not be based on its basis.
Cage-free
These eggs have been laid by chickens who were not kept in cages, they were allowed to roam free and were given access to water and food. They may not necessarily have been allowed to go outdoors.
Free Range
These chicken did have limited access to the outdoors.
Pasture-raised
Pasture-raised eggs basically means that hens in this category, were allowed to feed on bugs and greens, which means that the levels of vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids maybe higher as compared to saturated fats.
Vegetarian-fed
Hens in this category are only fed vegetarian sources of food. Naturally chicken are not vegetarian as they often eat a caterpillar or two.
Pasteurized Eggs
Pasteurized eggs are those eggs that are heated to the point of bacteria destruction. These eggs are today found in a host of stores and are ideal for people who may be susceptible to infections.
Be careful when you choose your eggs as it is indeed important for the health of your entire family. Speak with a Homeopath and a Registered Holistic Nutritionist to learn the benefits of eggs and also find alternative treatments for a healthy life.
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