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How To Buy Eggs

Well, which came first? The chicken or the egg? It’s an age-old question, and once you decide, there’s still much more to ponder. The biggest question you might be asking is how to buy eggs at the grocery store? Is there anything that you need to know about these essential cooking items?

First, let’s talk about chickens.

Chickens First Crossed The Ocean

The Egyptians and Chinese tended to fowl for their eggs as early as 1400 B.C.

The Europeans domesticated chickens as early as 600 B.C.

And while there is evidence of native fowl in the Western Hemisphere prior to Christopher Columbus’ arrival, it’s believed some of the ancestors of today’s egg-laying hens were passengers on his second voyage.

Today there are approximately 300 million laying birds in the U.S. producing 75 billion eggs each year.

Over 60% of those eggs are used by consumers.

How To Buy Eggs At The Grocery Store

How do you make a selection from all the choices on the grocery store shelf? Let’s talk about how to buy eggs and begin with an understanding of terms.

According to the USDA, there are actually three main grades of eggs: AA, A and B.

This grading relates to the quality of the egg inside the shell, the condition of the yolks and whites.

You’ll rarely or never see Grade B in the grocery store.

So, you’re safe with choosing either AA or A eggs.

Then there six egg sizes, ranging from Peewee to Jumbo.  This actually refers to the minimum weight per dozen for the entire carton of eggs, not the individual size of the egg.

As for egg color, that depends on the breed of the chicken.

But there is absolutely no difference in taste or food value between white, brown, or even green or blue eggs.

Yes, there are varieties of chickens that lay green and blue eggs.

Eggs Are A Bargain and Nutritious

When it comes to nutrition, fresh eggs are one of those rare foods with high nutrient density, zero carbs, and absolutely no sugar.

Eggs are one of the best bargains for protein per pound on the grocery shelves.

One thing you never have to wonder about is the value of having eggs on hand as a staple in your kitchen.

They are versatile, tasty, and oh, so nutritious.

Have you ever tried making this fabulous frittata?