There is something special about collecting free-range eggs. Free-range eggs are like snowflakes. No two are the same. They are big, small, freckled, and speckled. It’s like a little surprise every day, and it never gets old.
What does “free-range” mean anyway?
It’s important to understand that the term “free-range” for most people, paints a mental picture of fluffy chickens frolicking in green pastures with flowers, worms, and butterflies. Many people are under the impression that “free-range” chickens have unlimited access to the great outdoors, free to roam around all day long and return to their coop at dusk. I’ll admit that I thought the exact same thing before I started to really look into it.
According to the USDA, in order to certify the label of “free-roaming” or “free-range” a supplier must show that their chickens have access to an outdoor environment at some point. That being said, there is no clear indicator of how much and how long a chicken is permitted to roam outside each day.
When you are at your local grocery store, just be mindful of labels that claim “free-range” “cage-free” or “pasture raised” chicken eggs. These terms may mean something very different from what you may be thinking. It wouldn’t hurt to research some of the farms that are providing the eggs to your store.
As a rule of thumb, if a source cannot provide a clear definition of what they mean when they label their product “free-range” or “cage-free” chances are the chickens are not living their best lives in the sunshine all day long like you were hoping.
Where else can I find REAL free-range chicken eggs?
If you live in a more rural community, you might be able to get your eggs from a local farmer, farmers’ market, or friendly neighbor. There is also a growing number of people in city environments that are raising backyard chickens of their own!
Always be sure to do your research. Make sure you are getting your eggs from a safe and sanitary source.
Backyard birds of my own?
I realize that having your own chickens may not be possible for everyone. But if you decide to take the project one day, I don’t think you will regret it. Having your own chickens means you know exactly where your eggs come from. You know what kind of environment your chickens are living in, and you have a good idea of their overall health, and how well they are taken care of. You know what they are eating and how often they are laying eggs. You can ensure your chickens are eating nothing but nutritious, organic, and pesticide-free food.
Are free-range eggs really better?
In my opinion, yes. It really boils down to quality, taste, appearance, and nutrition.
The Taste
The taste is absolutely delicious. The egg itself is denser and with a richer “egg” flavor. There is nothing like fresh free-range eggs in the morning for breakfast. My favorite way to eat eggs is scrambled with buttered toast and a side of avocado and salsa!
Appearance
As I mentioned earlier, free-range eggs are diverse in color, shape, and pattern. Almost all of our 17 hens started laying eggs at 4 months old! When our chickens first started laying, their eggs were no bigger than a tiny little quail egg. This is completely normal and as time goes by, the eggs will get bigger and vary in appearance.
Don’t be surprised to find a double yolk when you crack these eggs open either. The funky egg in the middle (shown below) was a “double yolk-er.” The yolk itself is a bright yellow almost orange rich color. You will typically find the store-bought egg yolk is strikingly pale in comparison.
Nutritional Value
According to an article by mother earth news, fresh free-range chicken eggs were tested against average store-bought eggs. Basically, free-range chicken eggs had up to two-thirds more Vitamin A, twice the amount of omega 3 fatty acids, three times more vitamin E, seven times more beta carotene, one-third less cholesterol, and one-fourth less saturated fat than caged chicken eggs.
Essentially they look better, taste better, and are healthier for you. I’d say that is a win-win.
What to do with free-range eggs
Eat them! (of course)
We collect them every day and they can last up to a month on our kitchen counter. However, once they are washed, they need to be refrigerated. We usually end up using them up in less than two weeks. I love to just scramble my eggs and eat them with toast.
Another favorite way we eat eggs is our cast iron free-range egg breakfast sandwich!
Hard Boil
If you don’t plan on eating them right away you can always hard boil them for a simple snack, egg salad, pickling, and so on. My simple method for hard boiling these eggs has worked very well so far.
Sell them or give them away
Depending on how many chickens you have, you might find yourself with a surplus of free-range eggs. Consider giving some to family, friends, and co-workers. They will be more than happy to take your extra eggs off your hands. I’ve seen some cute egg stands. What a great way to share with your neighbors and make a little extra cash too!
I hope this article inspires you to look into your egg sources a little deeper. Do some research and keep an eye out for local free-range eggs near you! Happy homesteading!
Free Range Eggs Pin!
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Have you tried free-range chicken eggs for yourself?
Leave a comment below!
I love having our own chickens for so many reasons. The taste of the eggs in the store don’t compare to a backyard chicken egg when they are allowed to eat greens and dig for bugs. We used to sell our extra eggs and people were so happy with the difference in taste too.
So true:) I don’t think I will be able to go back! I enjoy selling our extra eggs too!