Eggs shake off decades-old misconceptions to claim their place as a nutritional powerhouse
Do clients ask you if it’s okay to eat eggs? In a long-awaited announcement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declared eggs officially “healthy” under its updated definition, a milestone celebrated by health enthusiasts, fitness professionals and nutrition advocates. The update cements eggs as a versatile and nutrient-rich option that supports a variety of healthy eating patterns.
The FDA’s revised criteria for the “healthy” label focus on foods that help Americans meet their nutritional needs, emphasizing dietary patterns that promote overall well-being. This announcement clears up decades of controversy surrounding eggs, particularly their role in cholesterol levels, and recognizes their numerous health benefits.
“This news makes eggs a clear healthy choice, vindicating them from outdated science,” said Dr. Jen Houchins, director of nutrition research for the American Egg Board’s Egg Nutrition Center. “Eggs offer high-quality protein and contribute essential nutrients, including vitamin D and choline, which many Americans are lacking in their diets.”
From Misunderstood to Celebrated
For years, eggs were a symbol of dietary caution, primarily due to concerns over cholesterol. In 1984, a TIME magazine cover famously questioned their health implications, fueling misconceptions that lingered for decades. However, modern research shows that the cholesterol in eggs does not adversely affect blood cholesterol levels as previously thought. Leading health organizations, including the American Heart Association, now embrace eggs as part of a heart-healthy diet for most individuals.
“This important update from the FDA reflects decades of research and unequivocally affirms the value of eggs for healthy living,” said Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board. “Eggs are a staple in nearly every American household, offering unmatched nutritional benefits for individuals of all ages.”
The 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend eggs as an ideal first food for infants and a key part of the diet for pregnant and lactating women, in part due to their choline content. Recent studies have further underscored eggs’ health benefits. Research published in The Journal of Nutrition links egg consumption to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s dementia, attributed to dietary choline. Additionally, eggs contain lutein, which supports eye health, and can enhance nutrient absorption from vegetables, making them a complementary component of balanced meals.
The FDA’s updated designation is expected to influence consumer habits and reinforce eggs’ reputation as a nutrient-packed food choice.