Yolk Color
Healthy / Nutritious Indicator Conventional / Less Nutritious Indicator
Deep orange or golden yellow – suggests a diet rich in natural pigments (xanthophylls) from greens, marigolds, or insects. Pasture-raised hens typically produce these vibrant yolks. Pale yellow – often indicates a diet primarily of light-colored grains like corn or wheat, typical of caged or factory-farmed hens.
Yolk Texture
Healthy / Nutritious Indicator Conventional / Less Nutritious Indicator
Firm, domed, and sits high in a thick, viscous egg white. This is a sign of freshness and high quality (USDA Grade AA). Flat, easily broken, and runny – suggests an older egg or one from a stressed, unhealthy hen, often found in lower grades (USDA Grade B).
Egg White
Healthy / Nutritious Indicator Conventional / Less Nutritious Indicator
Thick, cloudy, and stands up well around the firm yolk, indicating high protein quality and freshness. Thin, watery, and clear – spreads widely in the pan, typical of older eggs or lower-quality grades.
Eggshell
read more in next page
