Eggs have gotten a bad “rep” in prior years which have been debunked for some time now. Our family thankfully didn’t jump on that band wagon (even years ago) and continued to enjoy the healthful benefits that eggs offer. They are a great source of protein and offer B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, D, E, and K. As well as phosphorus, selenium, calcium, and zinc. They also have key organic compounds like omega-3s and antioxidants. When it comes to eggs these days, we hear the terms “Organic, Cage-Free, Free-Range”, and now “Pasture-Raised.” But do we know the difference between these terms (they are not all equal) and should we be mindful of them when we are at the supermarket picking up a carton or two?
Here are some things to consider when choosing between these types of labels. And believe me, there is a vast difference, but don’t just take my word for it. Watch this short video and see for yourself or go to the article link below this post to read more details. Keep in mind that marketing plays a HUGE part in how these labels are presented to the public. For instance, Cage-Free and Free-Range doesn’t necessarily mean that the chickens were not raised in large commercial egg warehouses with concrete floors, tight spaces, unsanitary conditions, and no access to direct sunshine or foraging outdoors. But because they are not technically “caged” up in a tiny box, they are able to make these claims that “appear” to be a healthier choice. The only difference, in my opinion, is the size of the box or “cage.”
Unfortunately, this type of marketing appeals to the average consumer who wants to make a healthier choice or to the unsuspecting consumer who just doesn’t give it a second thought. Sadly, the health benefits of these large industrial raised eggs can negatively affect their health benefits, which in turn may negatively affect the health of the person consuming it. Simply put, if the chickens are unhealthy, what does that do to the quality of nutrients in the egg they produce and if the consumer is not getting enough of the vital nutrients they need to thrive, how easy is it for them to fend off disease and illness? Just food for thought! Our country is nutrient deficient for more reasons than I can share on this post.
Farm Fresh
“Big Red” rules the roost!
We chose to start with Dominque Chickens. They are a heritage bird known for their calm and docile nature. They were said to have been brought to the New World by the colonist and their “type” was well known before 1750. They were reported to be endangered several years ago, but I believe they are making a come back because of like-minded homesteaders who have a passion for simple and natural living.
The term “Pasture-Raised” is gaining momentum and making a name for itself these days because these chickens, like our own Dominique Chickens are able to roam and forage in a natural environment where they can find more of a natural diet like seeds, insects, worms and green plants.
Sunshine, clean water, fresh air, green pastures filled with nice juicy bugs and worms make for an ideal environment for great egg production. Happy healthy chickens produce healthy eggs! This collection was not in one day, but since our family LOVES to eat healthy eggs, we couldn’t be more thrilled about how our chickens are doing.
Added this easy guide (source on image) to help remember the difference.
Organic, will often come with a hefty price tag, but here are some simple ways to help combat those higher prices at the supermarket…
- Raise your own layers if you have the space and appropriate conditions.
- Buy locally and help support your local economy and small farms.
- Get to know your farmer. Some smaller farms cannot afford the pricey cost of the certified “organic” label. You can visit local farms and get to see firsthand what their farming practices are and whether or not their chickens are injected with antibiotics and growth hormones.
- Join a local co-op and get the inside scoop from those you can trust.
Knowledge is freeing, so CHOOSE wisely!
Isaiah 26:3-4
Read more details here—————–>https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/01/13/pastured-eggs.aspx
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