When it comes to choosing eggs, quality matters—not just for taste but also for health. Eggs from healthy, well-cared-for chickens tend to have better nutritional value and are safer to eat. One of the first signs to look for is the shell. High-quality eggs usually have a strong, firm shell with a consistent color. A brittle or thin shell can indicate that the hen may have been nutrient-deficient or stressed.

Next, crack the egg into a bowl and observe the yolk and white. A healthy egg will have a vibrant, deep yellow to orange yolk, which signals that the chicken was fed a natural, nutrient-rich diet. The egg white, or albumen, should be thick and gel-like, holding its shape around the yolk. Watery or runny whites suggest an older egg or one laid by a chicken in poor condition.

Odor is another important clue. Fresh, high-quality eggs should have no smell. A strong, unpleasant odor can signal spoilage or disease. Additionally, the taste of a good egg is noticeably richer and more flavorful. Chickens raised on pasture or organic feed typically produce eggs with superior taste and texture, thanks to their diverse, healthy diets.

Lastly, consider the source. Eggs from small farms, backyard coops, or certified humane producers are more likely to come from healthy, stress-free chickens. Labels like “pasture-raised,” “organic,” or “free-range” can help you make informed decisions, though it’s always best to know where your eggs are coming from. Quality eggs are a reflection of the chicken’s lifestyle—happy hens lay better eggs.