Geographical Variations in Egg Nutrient Density: A Comparative Study of Sustainable Layer Hen Systems in Ohio and Indiana in Late Fall and Early Winter Months

Julianna Adams, Rachel Van Duinen, Selin Sergin, Chad A. Bitler and Jenifer I. Fenton ()
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Julianna Adams: Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
Rachel Van Duinen: Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
Selin Sergin: Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
Chad A. Bitler: Greenacres Foundation, Inc., Cincinnati, OH 45242, USA
Jenifer I. Fenton: Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-21

Abstract: Regenerative, pasture-raised layer hen systems create synergistic relationships between the hens, forage, soil, and weather, fostering a sustainable system. However, the influence of these factors on egg nutrient profile and quality may vary by region. This study took place over two years; samples were collected from a farm in Ohio during the first year and a farm in Indiana during the second year. Egg ( n = 12) and forage ( n = 3) samples were collected monthly from September to December. Fatty acids were quantified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, micronutrients were assessed in a commercial laboratory, and carotenoids and polyphenols were analyzed colorimetrically. Ohio eggs had significantly darker yolks (average yolk fan score: 8.5 ± 1.8 vs. 3.9 ± 2.0; p < 0.0001), a higher beta carotene and carotenoid content, and a lower n-6:n-3 fatty acid ratio across the season. Indiana eggs had a lower average total phenolic content (0.07 ± 0.00 mg GAE/g vs. 0.14 ± 0.10 mg GAE/g) and lower average total cholesterol (5.35 ± 2.9 mg/g vs. 10.99 ± 1.54 mg/g). Forage composition and soil parameters varied between farms. Regional variations in forage composition, soil nutrients, and regional weather can significantly influence the nutrient density of eggs produced in sustainable, pasture-raising systems. This research highlights how local environmental factors can shape the nutritional profiles of eggs in different regions. Future studies should explore this relationship in more regions.

Keywords: regenerative; pasture-raised; sustainable systems; poultry management; yolk; antioxidants; fatty acids (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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