Contrary to popular belief, brown eggs are not a healthier alternative to white eggs. There is no nutritional difference between brown and white eggs.

Why the difference in color?

The color difference is due to the specific breed of hen, according to the Egg Nutrition Center. Hens with white feathers and white earlobes generally lay white eggs, whereas hens with red feathers and matching-colored earlobes usually lay brown eggs. However, there are exceptions. The color really depends upon the pigments that are deposited on the egg as it makes its way through the oviduct.

Hens that lay brown vs white eggs

The most common breeds of chickens used for egg-laying are the White Leghorn, the Rhode Island Red, and the New Hampshire. White Leghorn chickens are white and lay white eggs. Rhode Island Red and New Hampshire chickens are reddish brown and lay brown or brown-speckled eggs.

Price

Brown eggs may be more expensive because the chickens that lay them eat more than those that lay white eggs." Among the breeds that lay brown eggs are the Rhode Island Red, the New Hampshire and the Plymouth Rock -- all larger birds that require more food. However, there are exceptions so the prices you find at the grocery store may be different.