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Chicken Eggs vs Duck Eggs : What the Cluck is the Difference?

We currently have about 41 laying chicken hens, and 4 laying ducks hens. They produce anywhere from 30-40 eggs per day.

Customers often wonder what the difference is between duck and chicken eggs. And while I don't have a degree in science, I thought I would highlight just a few of the major variances between the two.

Duck eggs taste very similar to chicken eggs and may have an even, richer more reliable "eggy" taste. The white of the duck egg is clearer, making for fluffier whites which are often used in baking to make fluffier cakes, softer cookies, and higher peaks for meringues.

Duck eggs are about 50% larger than chicken eggs and therefore have more protein and tend to have more vitamins and minerals (dependent on the diet of the ducks and chickens doing the laying). The average chicken egg has about 6 grams of protein while the average duck egg has closer to 9 grams. However, the yolk of the duck egg is also larger, meaning the fat content is higher. But that's not all bad! Duck eggs are higher in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation. Interestingly, the protein in duck eggs is different than the protein in chicken eggs, so if you're allergic to chicken eggs, duck eggs may be a viable alternative.

Due to their thicker shell, duck eggs have a longer shelf life than chicken eggs. This also makes them great for decorating around Easter time.

Our Farm Favorite

Chicken eggs are the best fresh and, in my opinion, hard boiled.  Yes, fresh eggs are a little challenging to peel, so here is my fool proof method for the perfect hard boiled egg:

Boil for only 7 minutes, then place directly into a container with cold water and place the lid on top.  Shake around until the shells crack, then it's all in the eating from there!

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