Eggs

Eggs are one of the most common foods in the world. Most eggs we eat come from chickens. An egg has a hard shell on the outside. Inside is a yellow yolk and clear egg white. Eggs are full of protein and vitamins that help us grow.

Parts of an Egg

The shell of an egg is made of a hard material called calcium. The yellow part is called the yolk. The clear part that turns white when cooked is called the egg white. Both parts are good to eat. A thin skin inside the shell keeps the egg safe.

An old Egyptian painting showing people with baskets of eggs.
An old Egyptian painting showing people with baskets of eggs. (Maler der Grabkammer des Menna / Wikimedia Commons)

Ways to Eat Eggs

People cook eggs in many fun ways. You can fry them, boil them, or scramble them. Eggs are also used to bake cakes and cookies. Some people eat eggs for breakfast with toast. In many countries, eggs are part of every meal.

Fun Facts

  • The color of an egg shell depends on the type of chicken that laid it.
  • A hen can lay about 300 eggs in one year.
  • Eggs float in salty water but sink in fresh water.

Did You Know?

The biggest egg in the world is laid by the ostrich. One ostrich egg is as big as about 24 chicken eggs!