ORGANIC EGGS - continued

Organic Eggs = Golden Eggs

The best eggs come from organic family farms where chickens are raised humanely, with access to sunlight and ample space to enjoy their natural, instinctive behaviors.

Organic eggs deliver both a personal and environmental advantage, because they come from healthy chickens, fed nutrient-rich organic feed. By law, organic feed must be produced without the use of genetically modified grains, sewage sludge, or synthetic pesticides.

However, Organic Valley egg producers go “above and beyond national organic standards,” explains David Bruce, Organic Valley’s Egg Pool Director who oversees 80 small family egg farmers. Bruce says once the chickens start laying eggs, "they all enjoy access to the outdoors." Those on pasture --- weather permitting, of course -- eat a seasonal variety of plants which further ensures nutritionally superior eggs  (2, 6). Organic Valley chickens also have the luxury of dining on alfalfa, which increases the amount of beneficial antioxidants in the yolk, as evidenced by its bright yellow color.

Unfortunately, most of the eggs consumed in the U.S. come from concentrated animal feeding operations, or “CAFOs,” where thousands of chickens live confined in cages stacked several rows high  (7, 8). In addition to the birds’ cramped living conditions, the mass of manure can release pollutants such as ammonia into the air, harming community and farm worker health. (7, 8, 9).

Organic agriculture focuses on enhancing soil fertility, preserving air and water quality, and promoting biological diversity and animal welfare  (2). By choosing organic eggs, you make a wise investment in your family’s health and nutrition, as well as the safety of our planet for future generations. Healthy soil, plants and animals produce healthier food for humans. Now there’s a bargain worth clucking about.