An influencer is causing quite a stir after questioning the high price of Burford Brown eggs, claiming the dark yolks they’re known for come from a simple diet of marigold and paprika, not necessarily better quality.
Sunna Van Kampen, better known as @tonichealth on TikTok, posted a video where he criticized the premium-priced eggs from Clarence Court.
The eggs, which are sold in major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose, are known for their dark, rich orange yolks.
But Van Kampen argues that this characteristic isn’t a sign of superior quality, but just a result of what the chickens are fed.
The Controversy Around Burford Brown Eggs
In his video, which has gained over 330,000 views, Van Kampen explains that the yolks’ distinctive orange color comes from the chicken’s diet of marigold and paprika.
According to him, these ingredients are used to artificially darken the yolk, making the eggs appear more appealing to consumers, yet this doesn’t necessarily mean they are healthier or worth the hefty price tag of £4.20 for a pack of six.
He went on to suggest that people could simply buy organic eggs, which he claimed provide better nutrition and are cheaper, costing only £2.95 for a six-pack of Waitrose’s organic eggs.
Supporters of Burford Brown Defend Their Quality and Taste
Despite Van Kampen’s claims, many Burford Brown fans have come to the defense of the expensive eggs.
They argue that the eggs are worth the higher price because of their superior taste and ethical production.
Some fans even mentioned that the use of paprika and marigold has health benefits for both the hens and the consumers.
One user remarked, “Raising hens the way Clarence Court does is more expensive than mass-produced eggs, but the taste is worth the price.”
Another added that the flavor of Burford Brown eggs is incomparable to other supermarket brands, claiming they taste far better.
Clarence Court’s Official Explanation for Their Premium Eggs
Clarence Court, the company behind Burford Brown eggs, explains on their website that their hens are fed a “maize-enriched diet” that includes paprika, marigold, wheat, sunflower, seashell, and soya.
This diet is designed to enhance both the color and quality of the eggs.
Additionally, the eggs are known for their heavy weight, thick dark shells, and richer flavor.
The company has also addressed the misconception that brown eggs are inherently healthier than white eggs, explaining that the variation in egg color is due to the breed of chicken, with no significant nutritional difference between brown and white eggs.
The Debate Over Brown Eggs and Animal Welfare
Interestingly, the debate over brown eggs has taken a different turn in recent years.
In 2020, farmers advocated for a shift back to white eggs, citing animal welfare concerns.
The farming of brown eggs often requires hens to have their beaks trimmed using an infrared laser, a procedure that is believed to be painful.
Robert Gooch from the British Free Range Egg Producers Association explained that if consumers switched back to white eggs, it could improve animal welfare by reducing the need for this practice.
He noted that while brown eggs have been marketed as more “rustic” or “natural,” this perception has contributed to their popularity since the 1970s.
The Influence of Social Media on Food Trends
As this debate continues, it’s clear that influencers like Sunna Van Kampen are playing a significant role in shaping food trends and influencing consumer opinions.
Whether or not you agree with his assessment, it’s undeniable that his video has sparked a broader conversation about the real value of premium products and the transparency behind their production.
While some may stand by Burford Brown eggs for their taste and ethical farming practices, others are questioning the true value of paying extra for what might be a marketing gimmick rather than a nutritional boost.