Why Are MannaFeast's Pasture-Raised Egg Yolks Orange?

The Secret to Happier Hens and Healthier, Tastier, More Ethical Eggs

Eggs have long been considered a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and high-quality protein. But have you ever cracked open an egg and noticed a rich, orange yolk instead of the pale yellow hue you're used to seeing? This vibrant color is the mark of a true pasture-raised egg, and it's a clear indicator of its superior nutritional content too. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind the orange color of pasture-raised egg yolks and why they're a healthier, more ethical option for you and your family.

The Power of Pasture

Here at MannaFeast, our true pasture-raised hens spend most of their lives outdoors on lush pastures, foraging a diverse, natural diet of grasses and other plants, while pecking and scratching to their hearts' content in search of tasty insects and worms to devour, including fly larvae found in manure.

This natural behavior not only leads to happier, healthier hens but also helps incorporate the manure into the soil, breaks the fly cycle, sanitizes our pastures (leading to healthier cattle and sheep), and provides a nutrient-dense food source for the hens.

Their unique, diverse diet is directly responsible for the rich orange color of true pasture-raised egg yolks and contributes to their superior nutrient density and flavor as well. This is what sets them apart from conventionally-raised hens, which are typically fed a uniform diet of strictly grains.

This is only possible when hens are actually raised outdoors on pasture. Our hens don't live in buildings with "outdoor access" or access to "pasture" like in most supposedly "free-range" grocery store eggs. They quite literally live outside, just as nature intended.

At night, they go into their mobile coop, which we rotate throughout our pastures every three days. This ensures they always have access to fresh pasture, unlike in stationary building setups where the "pasture" outside quickly turns into nothing more than bare soil from the constant foot traffic.

The Role of Carotenoids

The orange color in pasture-raised egg yolks is primarily due to carotenoids, a group of naturally occurring pigments found in plants. Carotenoids give fruits, vegetables, and other plants like grasses their vibrant colors, and they're also packed with health benefits. When hens forage for plants rich in carotenoids, these pigments are absorbed into their bodies and ultimately deposited into the yolks of their eggs, giving them a beautiful deep orange hue.

Two key carotenoids found in pasture-raised egg yolks are beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These powerful antioxidants promote eye health, protect against age-related macular degeneration, and reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Studies have shown that pasture-raised eggs can contain up to three times more lutein and zeaxanthin than conventional eggs.

Enhanced Nutritional Content in Pasture-raised Eggs

The carotenoids in pasture-raised egg yolks not only contribute to their rich orange color but also indicate a higher overall nutritional content due to the hen's diverse diet. Compared to conventional eggs, pasture-raised eggs boast increased levels of fat-soluble vitamins A,D,E, and K, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients play crucial roles in supporting vision, immune system function, brain health, and heart health. 

Taste the Difference

Many people also claim that the taste of pasture-raised eggs is superior to that of conventional eggs. The vibrant, orange yolks of pasture-raised eggs tend to be richer and more flavorful, making them a delicious addition to any meal and will surely elevate any egg dish, whether it’s a creme brûlée or a simple omelet.

In addition to their delicious taste, pasture-raised eggs boast a firmer texture and egg whites that aren't runny, unlike your typical months old conventional eggs often found in grocery stores. This leads to well formed fried eggs and poached eggs that hold their shape without falling apart making them a favorite among discerning chefs and foodies alike.

Make the Switch to Pasture-Raised Eggs

The orange yolks of MannaFeast's pasture-raised eggs are a clear testament to our commitment to ethical, regenerative farming practices that prioritize the well-being of our hens and the environment. These vibrant yolks are not only visually appealing but also pack a powerful nutritional punch and offer a rich taste you won’t find in your standard battery cage eggs from the grocery store.

So, next time you're at the grocery store or your local farmer's market, look for eggs labeled "pasture-raised" and give them a try! Or better yet…shop with confidence at MannaFeast and know you are getting the absolute best true pasture-raised eggs available anywhere.

In conclusion, the orange color of pasture-raised egg yolks is a direct result of the hens' natural, diverse diet, which includes plants rich in carotenoids. These carotenoids not only give the yolks their distinct hue but are also a sure sign you are getting ethically raised, nutrient dense eggs of the highest-quality. 

Ready to experience the rich taste and nutritional benefits of MannaFeast's regenerative pasture-raised eggs? Sign up for our waitlist by clicking the button below, and you’ll be the first to know when our farm-fresh, pasture-raised eggs are available to order!

Join the MannaFeast Egg Waitlist

P.S. - We are currently working on a solution to be able to ship our eggs directly to you! Our eggs are truly farm-fresh and “pasture-picked” meaning they still have the natural protective membrane that surrounds all eggs, from the moment they are laid. Because of this, our eggs are safe to store at room temperature for long periods of time, allowing you to stock up and buy in bulk to save! If you’ve ever been overseas and seen eggs sitting on the shelf at the grocery store, you’ll know what we mean.