Benefits and Side Effects of Duck Eggs | Nutrition of Duck Eggs

Duck eggs are now seen available in restaurant menus, farmer’s markets, and even in some groceries. They are larger in size than hen’s eggs.

The yolk is large, creamy, and golden and is loved by many.

The shell of duck eggs comes in a range of colors that include pale blue, blue-green, charcoal grey, and also occasionally white. The color largely depends on the breed of the duck.

As the yolk of the duck egg is larger than the chicken eggs, they are higher in fat and cholesterol content.⁽¹⁾ They are also rich in protein and many other vitamins and minerals.

On average, a duck egg weighs 2.5 ounces (79 grams), whereas a chicken egg weighs nearly 1.8 ounces (50 grams).^(2,3) Being larger in size, the duck egg is more nutritious than the chicken egg.

A duck egg gives 185 calories, 13 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, 295% of the daily value of cholesterol, 17% of the daily value of vitamin D, and 90% of the daily value of vitamin B12.⁽²⁾

A chicken egg gives 148 calories, 12 grams protein, 10 grams fat, and 141% of the daily value of cholesterol, 9% of the daily value of vitamin D, and 23% of the daily value of vitamin B12.⁽³⁾

The duck eggs have nearly an entire day’s worth of vitamin B12 that is required for red blood cell formation, healthy nerve functioning, and DNA synthesis.

Eggs are considered as perfect food due to their richness in various nutrients. There are various compounds present in them that play a role in benefitting the body in various ways.

The yellow-orange color of the yolk of duck eggs is from a natural pigment called carotenoid. It is an antioxidant that protects the cells and DNA from oxidative damage, which is a cause of chronic and age-related diseases.

Carotenoids like carotene, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and lutein are known to lower the risk of age-related muscular degeneration, cataracts, heart diseases, and some cancer types. All these carotenoids are present in egg yolk.^(4,5)

Egg yolk is also rich in lecithin and choline. Choline is a vitamin-like nutrient that is essential for the formation of healthy cell membranes and lecithin is converted into choline in the body.^{(4, 5)}

Choline is also essential for brain health. A study showed higher levels of choline in the blood were linked with better brain function.⁽⁶⁾ It also supports the healthy brain development of the fetus.⁽⁷⁾

The white of the eggs is rich in protein and also protects the body from infections. Many compounds present in the whites of the eggs have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.⁽¹⁾

Although duck eggs are extremely nutritious, they may not be a good choice for everyone.

Egg protein is one of the most common causes of food allergy in infants.^{(1, 8)}

The symptoms of egg allergy may vary in individuals and that include:

• Indigestion
• Vomiting
• Skin rashes
• Diarrhea

In severe cases, it can cause anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.⁽⁹⁾

The protein present in duck and chicken eggs is similar but not identical. This is why you may be able to eat duck egg while you might be allergic to chicken eggs.⁽¹⁰⁾

Duck’s eggs are extremely high in cholesterol that may put a person at an increased risk of heart disease. Egg yolks can raise the LDL (bad) cholesterol in some people.⁽⁴⁾

If someone has a history of heart disease or diabetes, duck’s eggs may not be considered safe.⁽¹¹⁾

Choline present in the eggs is considered another risk factor for heart diseases.

The bacteria present in the gut convert choline into trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), higher blood levels of which is linked to increasing the risk of heart disease.⁽¹²⁾

Foodborne illnesses like salmonellosis from salmonella are a concern with eggs.

A widespread outbreak of salmonella infection caused by eating duck’s egg was reported in 2010 in England and Ireland.⁽¹³⁾

Infants, children, pregnant females, older adults, and anyone with a compromised immune system should avoid undercooked eggs.

A high level of heavy metals has been detected in duck eggs.⁽¹⁴⁾

Duck’s eggs can be tasty and worth trying due to their rich flavor and fattier texture. They are large in size and nutritious than chicken eggs, but, are also related to various health risks.

Make a diet choice according to your health and age. You can also check with your healthcare provider on the same.