It's a common misconception that eggs are classified as dairy products. In reality, dairy items are solely derived from the milk of mammals, whereas eggs are produced by birds, which do not fall into the mammal category and, thus, do not produce milk. Despite this clear distinction, eggs and dairy are frequently associated with one another, leading to confusion about their classifications. As a result, many individuals ponder whether eggs should be categorized alongside dairy products. This differentiation is particularly significant for those who are lactose intolerant or have allergies to milk proteins, highlighting the need for clarity.

In this article, we will delve into the question of whether eggs can be considered dairy products.

Understanding Eggs: A Non-Dairy Food

It's essential to clarify that eggs are not classified as a dairy product, and this distinction is quite straightforward. The term 'dairy' refers to a category of foods derived from the milk of mammals, such as cows and goats. This includes a variety of items like cheese, cream, butter, and yogurt, all of which are made from milk.

In contrast, eggs are produced by birds, including hens, ducks, and quail. Birds fall outside the mammalian category and, importantly, do not produce milk. While you may find eggs located in the dairy section of supermarkets and often associated with dairy products, they are not derived from milk in any way. To reiterate, eggs are distinctly non-dairy since they are not a product of milk.

Understanding the Relationship Between Eggs and Dairy Products

It is common for people to categorize eggs and dairy together, even though they originate from different sources.

Despite their differences, these two food items share two primary characteristics:

• Both are derived from animals.
• They are excellent sources of protein.

Those following a vegan lifestyle, along with some vegetarians, tend to avoid both, as they are animal-derived foods, which might further contribute to the misunderstanding. Additionally, in countries like India, Australia, Japan, and Canada, eggs are frequently placed in the dairy section of supermarkets, which can mislead consumers into thinking they are closely related. This arrangement could simply be due to the fact that both products need to be refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

Eggs and Lactose Intolerance

For individuals facing lactose intolerance, consuming eggs is completely safe. This condition refers to the inability of the body to properly digest lactose, the primary sugar found in milk and various dairy products. It is noteworthy that approximately 75% of adults across the globe struggle with lactose digestion. Those suffering from lactose intolerance often experience digestive discomfort, which may manifest as gas, stomach cramps, or diarrhea following the intake of lactose-containing foods.

However, it is essential to highlight that eggs are not classified as dairy products, meaning they do not contain lactose or any milk proteins. Thus, just as individuals with an egg allergy can consume dairy without adverse effects, those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies can safely enjoy eggs—provided they are not allergic to both substances.

Highly Nutritious and Beneficial

Eggs stand out as one of the most nutrient-dense foods available for consumption. Even though they are relatively modest in caloric content, eggs are abundant in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a wide range of essential nutrients.

A single large egg typically provides:

• Calories: 78
• Protein: 6 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1 gram
• Selenium: 28% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Riboflavin: 20% of the DV
• Vitamin B12: 23% of the DV

In addition, eggs are a source of numerous vitamins and minerals that are crucial for bodily functions. Furthermore, they are among the limited dietary sources of choline, a vital nutrient that many people fail to consume in adequate amounts. Additionally, eggs are quite satiating and have been recognized as an effective food for weight management. Research shows that simply including eggs in your breakfast can result in a reduction of up to 500 calories consumed throughout the day.

The Bottom Line

While both eggs and dairy products are sourced from animals and typically found in the same supermarket aisle, it is essential to recognize that they are fundamentally distinct. Dairy is derived from milk, which comes from mammals, whereas eggs are produced by birds, such as chickens. Therefore, it is crucial to clarify that eggs should not be classified as a dairy product, despite the common misconception surrounding them.