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To offer the public greater choice, some egg farmers supply specialty eggs. These eggs may be slightly different in nutrient value than regular eggs or they may come from hens housed or fed in a special way.
Omega-3 Enhanced Eggs
Omega-3 Enhanced Eggs are from hens fed a diet that contains 10 to 20 percent flaxseed. Flax contains omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids which are important for lowering blood triglyceride levels and have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
Health Canada's Nutrition Recommendations for Canadians suggest a daily intake of 1 to 1.5 g omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats are found in a limited number of foods (fish, fish oils, canola oil, soybeans, flaxseed and some nuts). Enriching eggs with omega-3 provides another dietary source of this nutrient.
Omega-3 enhanced eggs contain 0.4 g omega-3 fatty acids compared to 0.01 g omega-3 fatty acids in classic eggs. The cholesterol and total fat contents are about the same as in regular eggs. Omega-3 enhanced eggs can also contain up to eight times more vitamin E than regular eggs.
Vitamin-Enhanced Eggs
Vitamin-Enhanced Eggs are from hens fed a nutritionally-enhanced diet containing higher levels of certain nutrients (e.g., vitamin E, folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12). As a result, the eggs produced will contain higher levels of these nutrients. The amounts of each nutrient will vary between brands of eggs.
Organic Eggs
Organic Eggs are produced by hens fed certified organic grains. Organic eggs have the same nutritional content as regular eggs. check for a "certified organic" designation on the carton plus the name of the certifying organization.
Vegetarian Eggs
Vegetarian Eggs come from hens fed a diet containing only ingredients of plant origin. The nutrient content of these eggs is the same as that of regular eggs.
Free-Run Eggs
Free-Run Eggs are produced by hens that have free use of the barn floor and have access to nesting boxes and, quite often, perches. The nutrient content of these eggs is the same as that of regular eggs.
Free-Range Eggs
Free-Range Eggs are produced in a similar environment as free-run eggs but hens have access to the outdoors and outdoor vegetation. Due to the extremes in our climate, outdoor access is only seasonally available in Canada. The nutrient content of these eggs is the same as that of regular eggs.
Processed Eggs
Processed eggs are shell eggs broken by special machines at the grading station then pasteurized before being further processed and packaged in liquid, frozen or dried form. Processed egg products may also contain preservatives and flavour or colour additives. These products cost more than classic eggs and there may be some differences in flavour. Though some products are available at grocery stores, many processed egg products are used by the foodservice and food manufacturing industries. When using processed egg products, it is important that proper handling procedures are followed. Once the package is opened, the shelf life of most processed egg products is five days.
Liquid Egg Products
Liquid Egg Products contain pasteurized egg whites, a small amount of pasteurized yolk and other ingredients. Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oils, may be added. These products are sold in packages containing two 250 mL cartons and can be found in the egg case or frozen foods section of grocery stores.
Liquid Albumen
Liquid Albumen (or Liquid Egg Whites) is pasteurized egg whites. This product contains no fat or cholesterol, or any of the essential nutrients found in the yolk. It is sold in packages containing two 250 mL cartons and can be found in the egg case of grocery stores.
Low Fat, Yolk-Replaced Egg Product
Low Fat, Yolk-Replaced Egg Product contains egg whites and other ingredients. It is sold in packages containing two 227 mL cartons and can be found in the frozen foods section of grocery stores.
Dried Whole Eggs
Dried Whole Eggs provide a convenient product for hikers or backpackers who wish to cook eggs without worrying about refrigeration or breakage. Dried eggs may be purchased at a store that sells hiking or camping supplies. The eggs can be reconstituted with water to make pancakes, scrambled eggs etc. Follow the instructions on the package when using.
Dried Albumen
Dried Albumen (or Dried Egg Whites) and Meringue Powder are sometimes used in baking. Dried egg whites contain only egg whites and can be reconstituted for use in recipes that call for egg whites. Meringue powder contains egg whites and other ingredients including cornstarch and sugar, and can be reconstituted for use in icing or meringue recipes. These products can be found in stores that sell bulk food or baking supplies. Follow the instructions on the package when using.
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