An egg a day is OK, says Bord Bia

BORD BIA yesterday launched a national campaign aimed at raising consumer awareness of the fact that “an egg a day is OK” as part of a healthy balanced diet.

The launch coincides with World Egg Day today and follows recent market research which estimates that annual Irish retail egg sales are valued at €63 million.

TNS World panel Ireland figures show an annual market value growth of more than 11% and a volume growth of more than 3%. Market growth is driven by a combination of more households buying eggs more frequently. Recent scientific studies have also concluded that there is no evidence to show that eating eggs as part of a healthy balanced diet raises blood cholesterol levels.

Bord Bia Ireland marketing manager Teresa Brophy said a healthy individual can enjoy seven eggs a week or ‘an egg a day’ as part of a healthy balanced diet.

“Eggs are simple to cook, healthy, versatile and also very cost effective,” she said.

Ms Brophy said results from a recent tracking study undertaken by Milward Brown IMS with 1,200 grocery shoppers nationwide indicate that 91% of consumers are eating eggs.

However, with the majority of these (51%) eating eggs 2-3 times per week, there is potential for shoppers to increase their egg consumption.

“Bord Bia has a wide range of recipe booklets providing quick and easy meal ideas for eggs that are available free of charge,” she said.

Bord Bia said that for those interested in weight loss, research also indicates that increased protein and reduced carbohydrate intake can help stabilise blood sugar between meals and reduce snacking.

It said eggs are a very useful lower calorie food that provides large amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.

“Their protein content and lack of carbohydrates can keep weight conscience consumers satisfied and feeling fuller for longer between meals,” it said.

Consultant nutritionist Paula Mee and TV chef Louise Lennox have teamed up with Bord Bia to celebrate World Egg Day.