Crack on with the power of eggs
New research by Bord Bia has revealed that consumers purchased 688 million eggs this year, an increase of 4.5% compared to last year.
The Irish Food Board found that this is driven by more people buying eggs more frequently compared to last year. 96% of Irish households buy eggs on average every fortnight.
To celebrate World Egg Day, which took place last Friday, Bord Bia partnered with three-time Cork Olympian Derval O’Rourke and registered dietitian Orla Walsh to highlight the nutritional benefits and versatility of Bord Bia quality assured eggs, specifically for women over 40, many of whom are balancing busy lives.
Derval explained why eggs are always a go-to meal in her house. “As a former professional athlete, I know how important it is to fuel my body. However, as a mum in my 40s, life is so busy and it’s hard to find time to keep up with all the information and nutritional advice.
“This is why I love eggs. They are so quick and easy whether it’s a meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and you know you are naturally fuelling your body with nutrients that will keep you and your family healthy. It’s also reassuring to know that when you buy eggs with the Bord Bia Quality Mark, you are supporting local farmers and communities.”
Kitchen superhero
The small and mighty egg is packed with high-quality protein, vitamins and minerals providing women with the essential nutrients needed to support energy levels, focus and overall wellbeing throughout a busy day. Many of these nutrients including iodine, selenium, biotin, B vitamins, heart healthy fats and vitamin D can help women with busy lifestyles or who are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause as Orla Walsh explained.
“These days, we are bombarded with various fitness experts on social media telling us to up our protein intake and all this information can be overwhelming. It’s true that eggs are a great source of protein, but they offer so much more!
“Two eggs provide your full daily requirement of B12 which helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. And for women who experience thinning hair, brittle nails and dry skin during menopause, eggs contain selenium which contributes to the maintenance of hair and nails as well as vitamin A, iodine, biotin and vitamins B2 and B3 to help maintain our skin. What's more, they also provide vitamin D which contributes to the health of our bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and the normal functioning of our immune system.”
Teresa Brophy, Bord Bia Marketing Manager concluded: “It is encouraging to see Irish consumers embracing the nutritional benefits and versatility of eggs. This World Egg Day, we are also encouraging shoppers to choose eggs with the Bord Bia Quality Mark. By doing so, they can trust that the eggs have been produced to Bord Bia’s highest quality standards which are independently verified at every stage.”