Derval's fave eggs? Runny of course...

OLYMPIAN Derval O'Rourke is marking World Egg Day today by paying tribute to the versatile food as her "go-to meal".

- BY LARISSA NOLAN

The world champion sprinter - and mother of two - cheered the mighty egg, as a survey to mark its international day revealed almost all families (96%) buy eggs once a fortnight.

"As a former professional athlete, I know how important it is to fuel my body. And as a mum in my 40s, life is so busy and it's hard to find time to keep up with all the information and nutritional advice," Derval said. "This is why I love eggs."

Bord Bia research shows eggs remain a staple in Irish households, with consumers purchasing 688 million eggs this year.

That's an increase of 4.5% compared to last year. In total, 96% of Irish households buy eggs on average every fortnight.

Dietitian Orla Walsh also highlighted the nutritional benefits and versatility of eggs, specifically for women over 40, balancing busy lives filled with work, family and caring for relatives, young and old.

She said eggs are packed with high-quality protein, vitamins and minerals providing essential nutrients needed to support energy levels, focus and overall wellbeing throughout a busy day.

Many of these nutrients include iodine, selenium, biotin, B vitamins, heart-healthy fats and vitamin D.

SKIN

"It's true eggs are a great source of protein, but they offer so much more. Two eggs provide your full daily requirement of B12 which helps reduce tiredness and fatigue," Orla said.

"For women who experience thinning hair, brittle nails and dry skin during menopause, eggs contain selenium which contributes to the maintenance of hair and nails as well as vitamin A, iodine, biotin and vitamins B2 and B3 to help maintain our skin."

Teresa Brophy, Bord Bia marketing manager, said: "It's encouraging to see Irish consumers embracing the nutritional benefits and versatility of eggs.

"This World Egg Day on October 10, we are also encouraging shoppers to choose eggs with the Bord Bia Quality Mark.