ALPHARETTA, Ga., April 3, 2012 – American egg farmers are expected to donate nearly 10 million protein-rich eggs to Feeding America food banks in 40 states this spring. That brings the number of eggs farmers have contributed since 2008 to 60 million.
According to Feeding America, one in eight Americans will receive help from one of the organization’s food banks this year and among the most needed items are sources of high quality protein.
“If you’ve ever met an egg farmer, you know just how incredibly generous and giving these men and women are,” said United Egg Producers President Gene Gregory. “All year long, but especially at Easter, they proudly do what they can to support the communities in which they live and work.”
For food banks across America, high quality sources of protein, such as eggs, are especially needed and valued. According to the USDA, one large egg delivers six grams of protein, along with 13 essential nutrients, including choline, folate, iron and zinc. After a review of the nutrient composition of standard large eggs last year, USDA concluded that the average amount of cholesterol was 14 percent lower, and vitamin D content was 64 percent higher, than previously measured.
“It’s no longer just unemployed people who seek out help from their local food banks,” said Feeding America CEO Vicki Escarra. “More than ever, we’re working with people who just can’t make ends meet and need help feeding themselves and their families.”
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