What are the main differences between organic and non-organic eggs?
Organic eggs are produced under an approved, third-party audited organic system plan. The birds that produce these eggs are fed an organic ration from day two of age. Their feed is certified organic and produced without the use of genetic engineering. Their feed also contains no animal products. The housing for the birds is totally open inside, and the birds have access to the outside. They are never caged. A non-organic egg cannot make all of these claims.
What type of feed do organic chickens receive?
Organic layers are fed a certified organic diet that contains grains and other natural ingredients and is produced without the use of genetic engineering. A standard ration might have organic corn, soy bean meal, alfalfa, wheat, peas, and flax if it is an omega -3 as well. Their ration also contains natural salt (no flow agents) limestone and vitamins.
Are there restrictions around what ingredients this feed can contain?
Yes. All of the feed ingredients must be either classified as natural or certified organic. Also no animal proteins are allowed.
Do organic chickens have access to the outdoors, and if so, how much access do they have?
Under the requirement for organic layers, the birds must have access to the outside except for some short time allowed periods of confinement (age of bird, animal welfare, inclement weather); otherwise the birds are to be allowed outside. Currently the regulations on time outside, and the actual look and size of this area, are under further review by the National Organic Program.
How does the nutritional value of organic eggs compare to their non-organic counterparts?
There is no difference from a regular egg to a certified organic egg in nutritional claims. However, many certified organic eggs do have additional nutrients that consumers should be aware of. Many can have added omega -3 or DHA claims and many have added vitamin E as well.
What should consumers look for when they are buying organic eggs (i.e. in terms of size, shape, color, etc.)?
The main things consumers should look for are shells free of cracks or signs an egg has leaked. Also, check the sell-by date and find product that as far from this date as is on the shelf. Eggs are good 2 -3 weeks past the sell-by date.
What should consumers look for to be sure that the eggs they are buying are organic?
They should look to make sure the product is certified organic and for the USDA organic logo. At farmers markets the seller should have his or her organic certificate posted, and it should list eggs as a certified product.
How should organic eggs be stored at home, and how long can they be stored for?
Eggs should be stored inside the refrigerator, not on the door, in their original carton. The carton has the sell- by date and also helps protect the eggs from other smells in the refrigerator. Eggs can be used two - three weeks past the sell-by date stamped on one end of the carton.
What is the best temperature at which to cook eggs to minimize the health risks associated with undercooked eggs?
The safe handling instructions on every egg carton should be followed to reduce any risk that a raw or undercooked egg might poses.
