World Egg Day is the perfect time to celebrate one of nature’s most versatile and nourishing foods. Eggs have been enjoyed for centuries across the globe and they continue to play an important role in kitchens across many cultures today. To mark the occasion, we’ve gathered ten fascinating egg facts that might surprise you!
1. A complete protein source
Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a valuable source of complete protein. This makes them a superior staple food for people of all ages and lifestyles.
2. Packed with nutrients
Alongside protein, eggs contain a range of important nutrients including vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium and choline – all of which support energy, bone strength and overall wellbeing.
3. An ancient history
People have been eating eggs for thousands of years, with records showing they were enjoyed across ancient Egypt, Rome and China.
4. The shell tells a story
Eggs can come in many colours, from white to brown to shades of blue and green. The colour simply comes down to genetics and doesn’t affect flavour or nutrition.
5. Egg yolks aren’t always yellow
Yolks can be deep orange, red, or even greenish depending on the bird’s diet. In some regions, hens fed on red peppers or marigold petals even produce striking orange-red yolks!
6. Strong structures
The unique shape of an egg makes it surprisingly strong. When pressure’s applied evenly, the curved shell can withstand significant weight without breaking. In fact, it’s the only solid that’s asymmetrical, self-balancing and strong at the ends – which is why architects and engineers study it.
7. Natural freshness test
Not sure if your egg’s fresh? Place it in a bowl of water! Fresh eggs sink, while older ones float due to air pockets that form inside the shell over time.
8. The world’s most-liked photo on Instagram
You might assume the most-liked photo on Instagram would be of a celebrity, but in fact the record is held by a picture of a plain egg, posted in 2019. It now has over 60 million likes!
9. Eggs are one of the few foods that naturally contain vitamin D
Incredibly, eggs provide the same nutrient that our bodies produce from sunlight. It really gives a whole other meaning to sunny-side-up!
10. Celebrated worldwide
World Egg Day was established in 1996 by the World Egg Organisation and is now celebrated every October in countries around the world, recognising the global importance of eggs.
Crack into World Egg Day with us
Eggs are simple, versatile and packed with goodness – and that’s something worth celebrating! However you like to enjoy your Yallamundi eggs, today’s a fun reminder of just how much this humble ingredient brings to our plates.