Pasteurized vs. Conventional Eggs: Nutrition and Health Effects Explained

Eggs, a common name in daily households, are considered a nutrient powerhouse. However, have you ever thought about which type of egg you are consuming, Conventional or pasteurized?
So, let me tell you the difference. A conventional egg is an egg that is budget-friendly and easily available in your nearest supermarket. This type of egg comes from hens kept in battery cages and constantly fed with water and food supplemented with minerals and vitamins.
On the other hand, pasteurized eggs come from a hen that roams freely and eats anything naturally available. Now, let's see how these two types are different in terms of nutrition.

via Imago
Via Freepik
Pasteurized vs. Conventional Eggs: Nutritional Comparison
In 2007, research by Mother Earth magazine highlighted the nutritional difference between the two types of eggs. The research body selected 14 farms and tested the nutritional values of their pastured eggs. The research found that the amount of vitamin E per 100 g of pasteurized eggs was 3.73 mg. On the contrary, 100g of conventional eggs had only 0.97 mg of vitamin E.
Another vital nutrient we can get from an egg is beta-carotene. This is an antioxidant and helps improve vision and immunity. According to that research, 100g of pasteurized eggs have 79.03 mg beta carotene however, the same amount of conventional eggs contains only 10 mg beta carotene.

via Imago
Jenna Hamra/Pexels
The research also found significant differences in vitamin A, Omega-3, saturated fats, and cholesterol levels. It has been proven that pasteurized eggs contain lower levels of cholesterol and saturated fat than conventional eggs.
So, it is clear that a pasteurized egg can give more health benefits compared to a conventional egg. Now, let's look at the disadvantages of consuming conventional eggs from a health perspective.
Effect of conventional eggs on health
Research by Arthur Eumann Mesas in the National Library of Medicine reveals that conventional eggs contain more Omega-6 than Omega-3, and over time, a higher amount of Omega-6 can lead to chronic diseases.
Apart from that, conventional production sometimes requires GMOs and pesticides, which can cause serious health issues. Conventional eggs carry some specific endocrine disruptors, which are again not good for your health because they can block natural hormones.
So, which type of eggs are you eating daily, conventional or pastured eggs? Are you willing to switch your eggs? Tell us in the comment section.
Written by
Supradeep Dutta
Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu
