Eggs

Eggs are a common food and one of the most versatile ingredients used in cooking. They are important in many branches of the modern food industry.

Overview

The most commonly used bird eggs are those from the chicken, duck, and goose eggs. Smaller eggs, such as quail eggs, are used occasionally as a gourmet ingredient in Western countries. Eggs are a common everyday food in many parts of Asia, such as China and India. In many countries, eggs are a staple food, in both cooking and baking.

Nutritional Value

Eggs are a very good source of inexpensive, high-quality protein. More than half the protein of an egg is found in the egg white, which also includes vitamin B2 and lower amounts of fat than the yolk. Eggs are rich sources of selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper.

Health Risks

Egg yolks and whole eggs store significant amounts of protein and choline, and are widely used in cookery. Due to their protein content, the United States Department of Agriculture categorizes eggs as Meats within the Food Guide Pyramid. Despite the nutritional value of eggs, there are some potential health issues arising from egg quality, storage, and individual allergies.

See Also

• Chicken
• Duck
• Goose
• Quail
• Protein
• Vitamin B2
• Selenium
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• Zinc
• Iron
• Copper
• Choline
• United States Department of Agriculture
• Food Guide Pyramid

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