You’ve probably heard that free-range chickens are kept in much better conditions compared to battery hens or closed-range farmed chickens. However, did you know that the egg produced by free-range chickens is actually much healthier too?

According to Mother Earth News, free range eggs contain:

• 33% less cholesterol
• 25% less saturated fat
• 66% more more vitamin A
• Two times more omega-3 fatty acids
• Three times more vitamin E
• Seven times more beta carotene

I’m unsure of the reason why there’s such a difference with free-range eggs. I believe it’s due to the chicken’s being less stressed with their greater freedom. Additionally, the chickens peck and eat insects from the ground, adding to their diet. Perhaps the fact that the chickens have plenty of space to walk around and get exercise too? That could be a reason for the reduced level of fat in the eggs.

You could always rescue some ex-battery hens and have 2-3 in your garden. You’ll have fresh eggs whenever you want them then!