Findings

Congress finds as follows: (1) Eggs and egg products are nutrient- and protein-rich foods that contribute to a healthy diet, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 (referred to in this section as the Dietary Guidelines) published by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services. (2) Eggs and egg products are important sources of iron, zinc, protein, choline, and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids contribute to healthy brain development for infants, according to the Dietary Guidelines. (3) Many Americans rely on eggs and egg products as an affordable, healthy source of protein. Nutritional research from the Department of Agriculture finds that eggs are the lowest cost source of protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and riboflavin. Eggs provide Americans with an easy, inexpensive source of protein. (4) The protein found in eggs is highly digestible and contains numerous essential amino acids. Plant-sourced protein found in egg product alternatives does not contain essential amino acids in levels as concentrated as in eggs. (5) Egg product alternatives are relatively new on the market and have potential to mislead consumers if such products are not properly labeled to distinguish such products from products made from shell eggs. (6) Consumers purchase egg product alternatives for various reasons, including food allergies. Consumers who need to purchase alternatives should be assured of labeling that is truthful and not misleading.