The Real Meaning Behind 7 Egg Carton Labels

Label terminology got you scrambled? Here's how it breaks down


Brown Eggs
Color alone doesn't indicate anything about an egg other than the type of chicken that laid it, and it does not have an impact on the flavor or nutritional profile.

This designation means the eggs were laid by chickens that were not confined to cages. But if you want a guarantee that the birds had outdoor access, look for certified organic, animal-free-range instead.

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Grade A
Eggs are graded for quality: AA, A, or B. The difference between grades has to do with the white's texture (grade B is thinner) and the yolk's shape (somewhat flattened in grade B eggs). In general, grades AA and A are best for poaching.

This USDA-regulated term indicates that the laying hens were not caged and were given continuous access to the outdoors and unlimited access to food and fresh water.

Omega-3 Enhanced
Chickens that have had an omega-3 supplement added to their food produce eggs that can have three to five times the amount of the beneficial fatty acids that naturally occur in eggs. This could make them a good option if you don't eat much fish.

Labels can play fast and loose with this terminology, so it can be difficult to tell what's regulated and what's not. The only guaranteed way to know you're purchasing eggs that have not been treated with antibiotics is to buy certified organic.

The green USDA label ensures that the eggs came from hens that have at least some access to the outdoors and are fed a 100 percent organic diet free from antibiotics. But the organic label doesn't protect these birds from controversial practices like beak cutting.

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