Brown vs. White Eggs: Are Brown Eggs Really Healthier?

By Lilo Last updated Jun 2, 2025

Cracking the Myth: Are Brown Eggs Truly Healthier Than White Eggs?

Eggs are a dietary staple around the world, known for being affordable, versatile, and packed with nutrients. But one question continues to puzzle many shoppers at the grocery store: Are brown eggs better for you than white eggs?

Let’s break down the facts behind the shell and separate science from myth.

Shell Color Comes Down to Genetics

The most obvious difference between brown and white eggs is the color of the shell. But this has nothing to do with quality or health benefits.

White eggs typically come from hens with white feathers and white earlobes.
Brown eggs are laid by hens with red or brown feathers and red earlobes.

This is a genetic trait and doesn’t affect the egg’s interior.

Nutrition: Nearly Identical

Contrary to popular belief, brown and white eggs have virtually the same nutritional content.

Both offer:

Around 70 calories
6 grams of protein
B vitamins, selenium, choline, and vitamin D

Any slight variations in nutrition usually stem from the hen’s diet and environment, not the shell color. For instance, hens fed omega-3-rich feed will produce eggs higher in omega-3s—regardless of shell color.

Taste and Cooking: No Real Difference

Some claim brown eggs taste richer or cook differently, but studies show no meaningful taste difference. If you notice a difference, it’s likely due to:

Freshness of the egg
Diet of the hen
How the egg is stored

So whether you’re scrambling, baking, or poaching, either color works just as well.

Shell Thickness: It’s Not About Color

Another common belief is that brown eggs have thicker shells. But this too is a misconception.

Shell thickness depends on:

The age of the hen (younger hens lay harder-shelled eggs)
The hen’s breed, not the color of the egg

So, don’t assume a brown egg is sturdier just by its appearance.

Price: Why Brown Eggs Often Cost More

Brown eggs typically carry a higher price tag, but it’s not because they’re better. The difference lies in production:

Hens that lay brown eggs are larger
They eat more feed, increasing costs for farmers

This higher cost is passed on to consumers, though the eggs themselves are nutritionally the same as white ones.

What Really Matters: Farming Practices

Instead of focusing on shell color, consider how the hens were raised:

Free-range, pasture-raised, or organic conditions often lead to healthier hens and potentially more nutritious eggs
Hens with access to a varied diet and outdoor time tend to produce better-tasting, fresher eggs

Look for labels that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable farming if these values are important to you.

Final Verdict: It’s Not About the Color

Brown or white, an egg is an egg when it comes to nutrition and taste. The key factors that actually impact egg quality are:

The hen’s diet
Living conditions
Farming practices

So next time you’re shopping, don’t let the shell color guide your decision. Instead, opt for eggs from farms you trust and that align with your values. Your omelet will thank you either way.