Why Don’t We Eat Turkey Eggs? The Surprising Reasons Explained
People across the internet have been stunned to learn why turkey eggs are rarely found in stores or served for breakfast. Despite turkeys being a staple on holiday tables, their eggs remain virtually invisible in everyday cuisine.
As it turns out, the reasons behind this odd omission involve biology, economics, and even old myths.
Turkeys Lay Fewer Eggs
One of the biggest reasons? Turkeys simply don’t lay as many eggs as chickens.
“Turkeys have a longer life cycle. They need to reach about seven months before they can lay eggs,” said Kimmon Williams of the National Turkey Federation in an interview with MailOnline.
In contrast, chickens start laying around five months of age and can produce up to six eggs each week.
Turkey Eggs Cost More to Produce
Because turkeys lay less often, need more space, and eat more feed, farming them for eggs isn’t profitable.
Experts estimate that one turkey egg would need to sell for at least $3 just to break even. That puts a dozen at around $36, compared to the few dollars a typical dozen chicken eggs cost.
Higher in Calories and Cholesterol
Nutritionally, turkey eggs are larger and richer than chicken eggs. They contain nearly twice the calories and fat, and three times the cholesterol.
While some chefs praise their creamy yolks for sauces and gourmet recipes, that hasn’t created enough demand to bring turkey eggs into the mainstream.
History and Myths Played a Role
Historically, turkeys are native to North America and were a key food source for Indigenous tribes. Chickens didn’t arrive until European settlers brought them in the 1500s.
When Europeans first encountered turkeys, they took them back to Europe. But in France, rumors spread that turkey eggs caused leprosy. These unfounded fears turned people off from eating them.
In early America, turkey eggs were briefly considered a delicacy. Famous restaurant Delmonico’s once served them scrambled, poached, or baked in frittatas.
Chicken Eggs Took Over
The rise of industrial chicken farming in the 20th century made chicken eggs cheaper and easier to find. As a result, turkey eggs gradually disappeared from most kitchens.
Today, they’re a rare treat, usually found only on specialty farms or among food enthusiasts.
Turkey Egg Supplies Are Dwindling
Adding to their scarcity, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported in 2024 that turkey egg inventories reached their lowest level since 1988—partly due to outbreaks of avian flu.
Final Thoughts
So while turkey eggs may offer rich flavor and culinary novelty, they simply can’t compete with the convenience and affordability of chicken eggs. Add in centuries-old myths and farming challenges, and it’s no wonder they’re hard to find.
Would you try a turkey egg if you had the chance? Let us know in the comments—and share this to surprise your fellow food lovers!
