Salted eggs are one of the nutritious, health-promoting processed foods. However, some individuals should limit their consumption of this type of egg.
What to Know When Eating Salted Eggs
Salted eggs are a common ingredient used in many dishes and as filling for various pastries such as mooncakes and sponge cakes. Salted eggs are typically made from duck eggs, although chicken eggs can also be used. This article will highlight the benefits of salted eggs made from duck eggs.
As we know, eggs are a healthy food product, but does salting them into another dish affect their nutritional value and health benefits?
1. Nutritional Value of Salted Eggs
Since salted eggs are made from eggs, they still contain nutrients similar to fresh eggs, although their levels may change. Fresh duck eggs typically contain protein ranging from 9.30% to 11.80%, fat from 11.40% to 13.52%, sugar from 1.50% to 1.74%, and inorganic substances, such as minerals, from 1.10% to 1.17%.
However, the introduction of sodium and chloride ions into the brine during the salted egg production process affects the nutritional content of the salted eggs. After acidification, duck eggs may contain 14% protein, 16.6% fat, 4.1% carbohydrates, and 7.5% inorganic substances.
The cholesterol content in salted eggs may also change after acidification, depending on the preparation method. Meanwhile, the amino acid content in duck eggs remains unchanged before and after acidification.
In addition to protein, fats, and carbohydrates, salted duck eggs also contain other nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, selenium, potassium, and sodium.
Salted eggs contain many vitamins and minerals. (Image: Internet).
2. Are Salted Eggs Good for You?
Essentially, the benefits of salted eggs are similar to those of fresh duck eggs in general. Here are some notable benefits of salted eggs that you may gain from regular consumption.
2.1. Good for the Brain and Nervous System
Salted eggs contain Omega-3, which can help brain cells develop and prevent certain issues like Alzheimer’s disease.
Additionally, salted eggs are rich in vitamin B12 and choline, which are beneficial for nervous health. Choline is an important nutrient that can help the nervous system function well, while vitamin B12 can help prevent various neurological issues such as memory loss, body imbalance, and rapid fatigue.
2.2. Hormonal Stability
The selenium content in salted eggs can help stabilize hormone metabolism. Moreover, selenium can improve reproductive health while maintaining the health of the fetus in pregnant women.
Selenium in salted eggs can help stabilize hormone metabolism. (Image: Internet).
2.3. Beneficial for Muscles
Salted eggs made from duck eggs typically have a higher protein content than chicken eggs. The high protein content in salted eggs can help enhance and sculpt muscles to be firmer and healthier.
In addition to benefiting muscles, the protein in salted eggs can also help repair damaged body cells, making the body healthier.
2.4. Prevents Anemia
Salted eggs have a relatively high iron content. Therefore, incorporating these eggs into your diet can prevent iron deficiency anemia.
2.5. Good for Eyes
Salted eggs also contain vitamin A, which helps maintain eye health and prevent several eye disorders such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Vitamin A also helps reduce dry eye conditions and protects the eyes from infections and viruses.
Salted eggs contain vitamin A that helps maintain eye health. (Image: Internet).
2.6. Good for Bones and Teeth
Salted eggs made from duck eggs can be beneficial for teeth and bones. Based on a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2015, the peptide content in duck egg whites can optimize the body’s calcium absorption. Calcium is a crucial nutrient for building muscles and maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
3. What Are the Dangers of Salted Eggs?
While they are known for their numerous health benefits, salted eggs have a relatively high salt content. An average salted egg contains over 10 grams of salt, whereas the safe salt intake is only 1.15–2.3 grams per day. Consuming foods high in salt increases the risk of developing hypertension later on.
Additionally, a salted egg is estimated to contain around 600 mg of cholesterol (depending on the preparation method), which is double the recommended daily cholesterol limit. High cholesterol levels can lead to various diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes.
4. Who Should Avoid Salted Eggs?
Experts recommend that certain groups of individuals should limit their consumption of salted eggs to avoid negative health impacts:
- People with high blood pressure and pregnant women prone to hypertension due to the high salt content in salted eggs.
- Individuals with high cholesterol or diabetes because the cholesterol levels in salted eggs are also relatively high.
Furthermore, when consuming salted eggs, everyone should be cautious in choosing eggs made in quality-assured locations. Some places may use slaked lime or lead oxide in the preservation process. Consuming foods contaminated with lead can cause significant health issues such as headaches, memory loss, and kidney and liver damage. If possible, you should make salted eggs at home to ensure quality and protect your health.
