3 Reasons Duck Eggs are Better Than Chicken Eggs

Benefits of Backyard Chicken and Duck Eggs

I don't know about you, but the backyard flock bug hit me hard. It started with just a few chickens, and now we have 5 chickens and 4 ducks! After we move we may even grow our flock.

Starting your own backyard flock has gained popularity the last several years. Both chicken and duck eggs offer unique benefits, making ducks and chickens excellent additions to any backyard. Although many people have strong opinions about one or the other. Let's explore the advantages of each type of egg and like me you may become convinced that duck eggs might sometimes be the better choice.

Meet Gabby, our backyard busy body.

Benefits of Chicken Eggs

• Availability: Chicken eggs are widely available and are the most common type of egg consumed globally.

• Variety: Chickens come in various breeds, providing a range of egg sizes and colors, from white to brown to blue.

• Familiarity: Many people are accustomed to cooking with chicken eggs, making them a staple in many recipes.

• Lower Fat Content: Chicken eggs generally have lower fat content compared to duck eggs, making them a preferable option for those watching their fat intake.

  
  

Benefits of Duck Eggs

• Rich Flavor: Duck eggs have a richer, creamier flavor compared to chicken eggs, which can enhance the taste of baked goods. I personally like the richness of the Egg yoke better in a duck egg.

• Higher Nutritional Value: Duck eggs are larger and contain more protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, particularly vitamin B12 and selenium.

• Longer Shelf Life: Due to their thicker shells and higher albumen content, duck eggs tend to have a longer shelf life than chicken eggs.

• Allergy-Friendly: Some individuals, but not all, who are allergic to chicken eggs may tolerate duck eggs better, making them a suitable alternative.

  

  Our lovely duck, Daisy, after digging around in the mud.

3 Reasons Why Duck Eggs Might Be Better

While both chicken and duck eggs have their merits, duck eggs can sometimes be the superior choice for these reasons:

1. Superior Baking Qualities: The higher fat content and richer flavor of duck eggs result in fluffier and more flavorful baked goods, making them a favorite among bakers.

2. Health Benefits: The increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins in duck eggs can provide enhanced health benefits, particularly for those looking to boost their nutrient intake.

3. Less Common: Duck eggs are less commonly found in grocery stores, making them a unique and sought-after alternative for those looking to try something different. If you plan on selling some of your extra eggs, you can often get a little more when selling duck eggs.

   
   

Both backyard chicken and duck eggs offer many benefits, from nutritional value to culinary versatility. While chicken eggs are a staple in many households, and can come in such fun colors, duck eggs can provide unique advantages that may make them a better choice for certain individuals and recipes. That is why they are my personal favorite. Whether you choose to raise chickens, ducks, or both, incorporating these eggs into your diet can have many benefits!