When it comes to eggs, most of us automatically think of the classic chicken egg—scrambled, boiled, fried, or poached. But there’s a whole world of eggs out there waiting to be cracked (pun intended)! Duck and turkey eggs are delicious alternatives, and they each bring their own unique nutritional benefits and flavors to the table.
In this post, we’re diving into the nutritional differences between chicken, duck, and turkey eggs, which one is the healthiest, and how their sizes compare!
Why Eggs Are a Nutritional Powerhouse
No matter the bird, eggs are:
Packed with high-quality protein
Loaded with vitamins A, D, B12, and choline
Full of healthy fats and antioxidants
Quick to cook, versatile, and satisfying
Whether you're making breakfast or baking a cake, eggs are a smart choice for almost any diet.
Nutritional Breakdown: Chicken vs. Duck vs. Turkey
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the big three eggs:
Egg Nutrition Comparison (per whole egg)
| Nutrient | Chicken Egg (Large, ~50g) | Duck Egg (Large, ~70g) | Turkey Egg (Large, ~80g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 70 | 130 | 135 |
| Protein | 6g | 9g | 9g |
| Fat | 5g | 10g | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 185mg | 620mg | 740mg |
| Vitamin A | 270 IU | 520 IU | 540 IU |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.6 mcg | 3.8 mcg | 1.1 mcg |
| Vitamin D | 41 IU | 63 IU | 56 IU |
| Folate | 24 mcg | 80 mcg | 56 mcg |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 2.7 mg | 3.1 mg |
| Omega-3s | 37 mg | 71 mg | 70 mg |
| Weight | 50g | 70g | 80g |
Most Nutritious Overall: Duck eggs! They’re richer in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats—perfect if you want a nutrient-dense option. Just watch the cholesterol if that’s a concern.
Need a printable version of this chart? Save this infographic for future reference!
Egg Size Comparison
Not all eggs are created equal in size, and that affects how you use them in the kitchen:
| Bird Type | Average Egg Size | Approx. Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bantam Chicken | Small | 15–20g | Half the size of a standard chicken egg. Use 2 for every 1 regular egg. |
| Standard Chicken | Medium-Large | ~50g | Your everyday grocery store egg. |
| Duck | Large | 70–100g | Bigger yolk, richer flavor, ideal for baking. |
| Turkey | Extra-Large | 80–120g | Harder to find, very rich, great for special dishes. |
What’s the Best Egg for You?
Everyday versatility: 🐔 Chicken eggs — affordable, balanced, easy to find.
Nutrient boost & baking: 🦆 Duck eggs — richer in taste and vitamins.
Special treat: 🦃 Turkey eggs — rare and luxurious with a unique flavor.
Eggs are more than just a breakfast staple—they’re a superfood from the coop! Whether you're sticking with chicken eggs or branching out to duck and turkey, you're making a wholesome choice. Each egg type brings something different to the table, both nutritionally and flavor-wise.
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping in duck eggs for your next frittata or tracking down turkey eggs for a weekend brunch worth remembering!
Got Questions?
Curious about quail or goose eggs? Want tips on raising your own backyard flock? Drop your questions in the comments or share this post with your fellow egg-lovers!