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5 Common Egg Myths Debunked: Expert Insights on Freshness, Nutrition, and Storage

5 Common Egg Myths Debunked: Expert Insights on Freshness, Nutrition, and Storage

Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, but misconceptions persist. Egg enthusiasts, test your knowledge against these five widespread myths backed by poultry science and food safety expertise.

1. Brown eggs are more nutritious than white eggs

The shell's color stems from the hen's breed—some even lay blue or green eggs. This genetic trait has no bearing on nutritional value, quality, or taste.

Read also: ‘Facts and fables about olive oil’

2. You can't check an egg's freshness without the expiration date on the carton

Many eggs lack a 'best before' date, but a simple buoyancy test works reliably. Submerge the egg in a bowl of water: if it sinks immediately, it's fresh; if it floats, discard it. Over time, air enters through the porous shell, causing this change.

3. Eggshell thickness doesn't matter

Shell thickness reveals much about the hen's diet and health—the thicker, the better nourished the bird. Interestingly, smaller eggs often have thicker shells, making them easier to peel after hard-boiling.

4. The fridge door's egg compartment is ideal for storage

Egg cartons are engineered to absorb shocks, prevent breakage, and block fridge odors. The door spot exposes eggs to temperature swings from frequent openings, shortening shelf life. Store cartons on a stable middle shelf instead.

5. All egg yolks share the same color

Yolk color varies with the hen's diet—pale yellow from basic feed, deep orange from nutrient-rich, free-range sources like grass and insects. Darker yolks signal superior nutrition.

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