Chicken Eggs Versus Duck Eggs
Written by: Dr. Frannie Koe, MD
On my farm here in Collinsville, I raise both ducks and chickens. Neither lay as many eggs during the winter, but as the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, our birds’ egg production is increasing. Although here in the US, most people only eat chicken eggs, I eat both types of eggs at my house, depending on who is laying the most at the time.
I’ve always wondered about the popularity of chicken eggs, and if there were any significant differences either in nutrition, means of preparation, or taste and texture between chicken and duck eggs. I came across a fantastic article from Mother Earth News which breaks down all the differences.
https://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/the-proscons-of-eating-duck-eggs-vs-chicken-eggs-zbcz1705
As a physician, I was particularly fascinated by the nutritional differences between the two, especially the fact that duck eggs are actually higher in Omega-3 acids and protein than chicken eggs. However, duck eggs are much higher in cholesterol, so if this is a concern, please consult your personal health care provider.
The article also mentions a difference in the texture of the two types of eggs in certain types of preparations. I personally do not notice too much of a difference in taste between the duck and chicken eggs. To me, they are both good. I cook with them both as if they are the same, although I do very little baking. There may be a difference in baking with duck eggs, as mentioned in the article. If you have had any experience cooking with alternative eggs, we’d love to hear your experiences and recipes!
