It’s no secret that egg consumption in the U.S. is often on the rise. Duck egg consumption alone has gained some traction as it is becoming more in demand. But have you ever wondered what the differences are between chicken eggs and duck eggs and why some people prefer one over the other?

Appearance

Like chicken eggs, the color of the duck eggshell is determined by the breed from which it is laid. Although they both have a variety of colors, the eggshells do have differing thickness. Duck eggs tend to have a thicker shell than chicken eggs, which helps them last longer.

When it comes to their size, however, duck eggs are quite larger than chicken eggs. A duck egg’s size can span 50-100% larger than a regular chicken egg.1 Duck eggs contain larger whites and yolks than chicken eggs, which makes them the more ideal choice for baking.

Nutrition

Duck and chicken eggs both contain plenty of proteins and fat, but their sizes factor into the nutritional values. Duck eggs generally contain more calories, protein, and fat because of their size. The yolk of a duck egg is richer in flavor and color because it contains more fat than chicken egg yolks. The color of the yolk for both chicken and duck eggs, however, does not typically determine the nutritional value of the egg, but the diet of the bird who laid the egg.

Duck eggs also contain more cholesterol than chicken eggs, as well as many vitamins. One of the vitamins they provide more of is vitamin B12. One duck egg contains up to 168% of the recommended daily intake as opposed to the 32% from one large chicken egg.¹

Cost & Availability

Because duck eggs are generally larger and less readily available for purchase, they are often priced higher than chicken eggs. Although cost and availability is a factor, there is an increase in demand for duck eggs. Duck eggs are becoming a commonly sought after product by higher-end restaurants. Some companies are also working on strategically marketing duck eggs to increase the demand as well as their sales.

Although there are some differences between the two, chicken eggs and duck eggs are not so distinct. Whether you are after a fatter, richer egg or one that is always in demand, you can never go wrong with a chicken egg or a duck egg.

¹Healthline. (Dec 1, 2020) Duck Eggs vs. Chicken Eggs: Nutrition, Benefits, and More.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/duck-eggs-vs-chicken-eggs#benefits