New consumer data from Bord Bia has revealed that over 656 million eggs have been sold in Ireland in the last year.

Despite changes to shopping and eating habits this year, egg consumption increased by 11%. The new research from Bord Bia shows that shoppers in Ireland consumed “even more eggs” during the first national lockdown.

The 12-week period from April to July saw a significant growth of more than 20% in consumption, proving that consumers continued to make ‘eggs-ellent‘ choices during lockdown.

How do Irish people like their eggs?

When it comes to the nation’s favourite way to eat eggs, the research shows that traditional cooking methods are hard to beat.

Bord Bia says that one in four consumers aren’t afraid to ‘whisk’ it, favouring scrambled eggs, while one in five prefer them boiled.

There were also some generational differences too; the research shows that ‘Gen Z’ (those born in the mid-to-late 1990s to 2010s) prefer scrambled eggs (40%), whereas ‘baby boomers’ prefer boiled eggs (24%). ‘Millennials’ equally favoured both scrambled (27%) and fried eggs (27%).

Speaking about the role of eggs in a busy and active lifestyle, dietitian Orla Walsh said that eggs are “nutritional powerhouses”.

Crack on

“One of the best sources of protein available in your kitchen, eggs are packed full of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D and B12,” she said.

They’re also great value for money and versatile too, so don’t let misconceptions about cholesterol or saturated fats stop you from making them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

“Egg muffins are a great batch-cook option for snack time. Not only are they quick to make, but they can last days in the fridge.”

Bord Bia is encouraging the public to ‘Crack On’ and consider eggs at a variety of meal occasions beyond breakfast. As consumers increasingly look for healthy protein sources, with one egg containing approximately 6g of protein, they are an “ideal ingredient for a post-workout meal or a quick work from home lunch”.