New UK Report Pegs Eggs As Cheap But Nutritious

New UK Report Pegs Eggs As Nutritious But Inexpensive

UK health professionals are being told that eggs are one of the cheapest but most nutrient-rich sources of protein available and have an incredible ability to boost health and even help tackle obesity.

A recent report published in the UK nurses’ journal, The Nursing Standard(1), reveals that eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense but cost-effective foods around and contain greater concentrations of a host of vital vitamins and minerals compared to other protein rich foods. In addition eggs are cheaper to buy per 100g of protein than nearly all protein-rich foods.

When compared to beef, lamb, chicken and white fish, eggs have a similarly high level of protein yet cost far less. The cost of providing 100g of protein – the daily recommended intake of protein for an adult male is 80g - is just $4.50 for eggs but $5.20 for beef mince, $8.50 for lamb, $6.50 for chicken and $13.60 for fish (gurnard).  Eggs also contain less saturated fat and be the richest in vitamin A, folate, biotin and iodine, and the second richest in vitamin D.

The new report also shows that eggs could play a significant role in weight management and dieting, and can even help prevent age-related macular degeneration – an eye condition that often leads to blindness.

New Zealand registered dietitian, Cindy Williams, says: “Protein-rich foods can be quite expensive but the humble egg provides protein in a low saturated fat, nutrient rich package that’s affordable for everyone. Eggs are the ultimate fast food – quick to cook, easy to eat, cheap and packed full of nutrients. They’re great for a sustaining breakfast or lunch, or for a quick, nutritious dinner.”

This latest news follows recent research that identified eggs as a ‘superfood’, thanks to their nutritional benefits and high vitamin D levels.

(1) Ruxton C. 2010. Recommendations for the use of eggs in the diet. Nursing Standard 24(37):47-56.

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