When buying eggs at the store, you may encounter various terms on egg boxes. These terms provide information about how the eggs were produced, the quality of the eggs, and the living conditions of the hens. Here’s a guide to understanding these terms:

Egg Production Methods

Know these egg terms and make informed decisions when buying eggs. These terms display on egg cartons and packaging, usually in large writing.

Cage-Free:

• Hens are not kept in cages, but they live in large barns or aviaries.
• They have more space to move compared to caged hens but might not have outdoor access.

Free-Range:

• Hens are cage-free and have access to the outdoors.
• The amount and quality of outdoor access can vary.

Pasture-Raised:

• Hens are raised on pasture and have access to the outdoors year-round.
• They have ample space to roam and forage naturally.

Conventional or Battery-Caged:

• Hens are kept in small cages, often with limited space to move.
• This is the most common method for producing eggs but is criticized for animal welfare issues.

Egg Quality and Size

Grade:

• Grade AA: Highest quality, with firm whites and high, round yolks.
• Grade A: Very good quality, slightly less firm whites compared to Grade AA.
• Grade B: Lower quality, with thinner whites and flatter yolks. Usually used in processed foods rather than sold in stores.

Size:

• Jumbo: About 30 ounces per dozen.
• Extra Large: About 27 ounces per dozen.
• Large: About 24 ounces per dozen.
• Medium: About 21 ounces per dozen.
• Small: About 18 ounces per dozen.
• Peewee: About 15 ounces per dozen.

Specialty Labels

Organic:

• Hens feed on organic, non-GMO feed and have outdoor access.
• No antibiotics or synthetic pesticides are used in their feed.

Omega-3 Enriched:

• Hens feed on a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, often including flaxseed or fish oil.
• Eggs have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids.

Certified Humane:

• A certification indicating that hens are raised according to specific animal welfare standards.
• Covers aspects like space, shelter, and management practices.

Non-GMO:

• Hens feed on a diet that does not contain genetically modified organisms.

Vegetarian Fed:

• Hens are given a feed that does not contain animal by-products.

Additional Terms

Brown vs. White Eggs:

• The color of the eggshell is determined by the breed of the hen.
• There is no nutritional difference between brown and white eggs.

All-Natural:

• This term is not regulated and can vary in meaning. It generally suggests no artificial ingredients or preservatives are used.

Farm Fresh:

• Often a marketing term with no specific regulatory definition. It implies that the eggs are fresh and locally sourced.

Whether you prioritize organic production, humane treatment, or specific dietary enhancements like omega-3, the labels on egg boxes provide valuable insights into how your eggs are produced.