Sold under a number of different brand names, omega-3 enriched eggs are on the market in various parts of the country. Omega-3 fatty acids are more commonly found in fish and fish oils as well as canola oil, soybeans and flaxseed. Flaxseed is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and lower in saturated fatty acids than other grains. As a result, the eggs produced from hens on this feed formula are higher in omega-3 fatty acids. The total fat content of the egg and the cholesterol level remains very similar.
Nutrient values vary depending on the composition of the feed.
Changes to the fatty acid profile do not affect the functional properties of the egg. A second type are called omega-6. Monounsaturated fatty acids are from the omega-9 family of fatty acids. Only omega-9 fatty acids can be synthesized by our bodies. The following table shows different families of fatty acids and their food sources.