Eggs are such a versatile ingredient to have in your kitchen as they can make several different meals – and quickly, too! We all know commonly-sold eggs come from chickens, but it’s unclear what food group eggs fit into. Are eggs meat?
In the article we are going to explore if eggs are meat, poultry or dairy.
Table of Contents
Is an Egg a Vegetable or Meat or Dairy Product?
The answer is neither.
Unfertilized eggs are not animal flesh and therefore are seen to be an animal product, which means they are suitable for vegetarians but not vegans. Eggs are also laid by hens meaning, they are not a vegetable or fruit either.
Fertilized eggs are seen differently as they have the potential to be a chicken, therefore unfertilized eggs are not considered to be suitable to eat for vegetarians.
Are eggs dairy and not meat? Eggs are also not dairy. The U.S. The Department of Agriculture states that all fluid milk products are considered in the dairy food type. This includes milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and butter. But not eggs! For a food to fit into the dairy food type, it has to be produced from the milk of mammals such as cows, goats and sheep. Eggs are not made from milk, but are laid by hens. Therefore they do not fit this food category.
So, what food group are eggs in? Eggs could be in their own category as they are not meat or dairy. The best answer to what food group is an egg is the protein food group, as eggs are a great source of protein and fat.
Are Eggs Protein Or Meat?
Eggs are not considered to be meat as they are not made from animal flesh.
Eggs fit nicely into the protein food group and are also low-carb and low-calorie. They are a fantastic source of protein, with one egg providing up to 8 grams of protein. Eggs are also extremely beneficial for your health as they contain a number of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B2, vitamin B12 and vitamin D.
Is boiled egg meat? The quick answer is no. Unfertilized eggs are seen to be suitable for vegetarians as an egg is a byproduct of a bird.
If eggs are not meat and they are not dairy, then are you wondering if eggs poultry? You’re not alone! This is a common misconception as most supermarket eggs come from chickens, which are poultry. Just like milk from a cow, or milk from a goat, eggs are a byproduct of chickens and therefore don’t carry the same poultry label.
FAQs
Are Unfertilized Eggs Vegetarian?
In the egg farming industry is it very common for hens and roosters to be kept separate. Therefore the chance of the roosters impregnating the hens is very low. This means that mostly all commercial eggs are unfertilized and are okay for vegetarians to consume.
Do Vegans Eat Eggs?
Vegans do not eat eggs as a vegan diet does not include animal products as well as meat. Although a vegan who does still eat eggs would be considered a ‘ovo-vegetarian’.
Eggs Are Protein
Eggs are not a vegetable, fruit, meat, poultry or dairy. They almost fit into their own category!
One thing for sure is that eggs 100% fit into the protein food group and are extremely nutritious and good for our health!
What do you consider eggs to be? Are you vegan but eat eggs?
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