BANGKOK, Thailand – Green-shelled chicken eggs may look unusual, but their colour is a natural result of genetics rather than dye or chemical treatment. Certain breeds, including Araucana and Ameraucana chickens, naturally produce eggs with shells ranging from pale green to blue-green. The color develops from natural pigments deposited during shell formation inside the hen. Despite their unusual appearance, green eggs are generally similar to other chicken eggs in size, shape, cooking uses and basic nutritional value. Some duck breeds can also produce greenish or blue-green eggs.
Does shell color mean more nutrients?
Not necessarily. Green-shelled eggs generally provide nutrients similar to white and brown eggs, including high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Eggs are sources of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, zinc and selenium. However, nutritional differences are influenced more by the hen’s breed, diet, living conditions and farming practices than by shell color. A green shell therefore does not automatically mean an egg is more nutritious.
Nutritional benefits of eggs
Protein and energy: Eggs provide high-quality protein that helps support muscle maintenance and repair while contributing to feelings of fullness.
Brain and nervous system: Eggs contain choline, an important nutrient for brain and nervous-system function, as well as vitamin B12.
Heart health: Eggs from hens given specially formulated feed can contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, but green-shelled eggs are not automatically higher in omega-3.
Immune function: Vitamins A and D, along with minerals such as zinc, contribute to normal immune-system function.
Eyes and skin: Eggs contain antioxidants including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are associated with eye health. Their protein and vitamins also contribute to overall skin health.
How should green eggs be eaten?
Green-shelled eggs can be prepared and eaten in the same ways as other eggs. Boiling, steaming or poaching, or using only a small amount of oil, can be preferable to deep-frying when aiming to limit added fat.
People who need to monitor cholesterol or follow a specific diet should consider eggs as part of their overall daily eating pattern. Ultimately, the color of an eggshell is mainly an interesting genetic characteristic. The hen’s breed, diet and living conditions have a greater influence on nutritional content than whether the shell is green, white or brown.
