Comparing eggs to high-fat, fast-food is irresponsible, inaccurate: Egg
Farmers of Canada refute misleading scientific report

OTTAWA, Nov. 2 /CNW/ - Egg Farmers of Canada today responded to a report issued by the University of Western Ontario, calling it irresponsible and inaccurate. Egg Farmers of Canada wants to reassure Canadians that eggs are a nutritious choice and that they can confidently consume eggs as part of a well-balanced diet.

"With obesity increasing in North America at an alarming rate, medical professionals should be encouraging the consumption of nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods, such as eggs, rather than suggesting that high-fat, fast food is better for health," Bonnie Cohen, a registered dietitian with Egg Farmers of Canada, said.

"While individuals with heart or other health issues should always consult with their doctors or dietitians about their diet, research consistently shows that the vast majority of people may eat eggs without concern," she added. "Furthermore, comments made by these same researchers that a popular high-fat, high-calorie sandwich is more nutritious than eggs are quite simply irresponsible."

Laurent Souligny, chair of Egg Farmers of Canada, says egg farmers take a great deal of pride in providing Canadians with a convenient, nutritious and affordable meal choice. He adds that the report issued by the University of Western Ontario inaccurately cites the cholesterol level of eggs. "If the researchers get this number wrong, we must question the accuracy of the complete report," Souligny said.

A large Canadian egg has 195 milligrams of cholesterol and the Double Down, according to the nutritional information posted at kfc.ca, has 150 milligrams of cholesterol.  The Double Down also has 30 grams of fat and 540 calories. A large egg, on the other hand, has 5 grams of fat and only 70 calories.

"It is important that Canadians balance their diets by choosing a variety of foods from each of the food groups in Canada's Food Guide," Cohen said.

Canada's Food Guide recognizes two eggs as a serving in the Meat and Alternatives group.

For further information:

Bernadette Cox
613 238 2514 extension 2235