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| Claire Gothard Class of 2019 |
Scrambled, fried, sunny side up. Countless varieties of eggs have been unduly sequestered into inhabiting almost exclusively the breakfast realm. Whether stand alone or on a handy sandwich, restaurants and public culture seem only to enjoy eggs in their morning capacity. In their limited reach past noon, eggs seem to have a stereotyped role that carries a negative stigma. Not only do I believe this designation is arbitrary, but also detrimental to our culture by not fulfilling the potential social benefit. Traditionally, eggs have been isolated to the morning time due to the misperceptions of high fat and bad smell.
The stigma surrounding the hard-boiled egg – the only acceptable afternoon cooking method – is completely unnecessary and hurtful to our populous’ health. Many folks believe that they cause an unfavorable smell and thus ostracize the poor food. Alternative cooking methods, which I am advocating for, may eradicate such a smell and provide the same positive results. The health benefits of eggs are not a fact we can ignore. For just around 70 calories, one large egg contains about 13 essential vitamins and minerals. Studies have shown that increased egg consumption could lead to a reduction of stroke risk/propensity by 12% and despite common misperception; do not cause an increase in heart problems, according to the American Egg Board. The USDA reports prices averaging around 60 to 70 cents per egg. Here, we see eggs can be used as a cool, healthy, filling, and cheap snack.
An indicator of demand for day-long egg consumption is the advent and success of McDonalds all day breakfast. The monstrous brand saw a 5.4% rise in sales in the first quarter of offering egg products, among other options, all day. There seems to be an unmet demand that producers are beginning to fill – eggs all day. We can see another expansion of consumption in the artisanal burger movement; fried eggs are becoming a more popular and accessible topping.
Why entrap such a versatile food into such a narrow morning role? Eggs provide many benefits to the individual in choice and health, as well as encouraging the US egg producers and farmers. Try a fried egg on your burger, or scrambled eggs with dinner and see the benefits of making your own choices and cracking open new experiences with eggs.
Claire Gothard, of Louisville, Ky., is a sophomore McConnell Scholar studying economics, liberal studies, business and political science.