What To Do With Too Many Eggs

Chickens owners know the benefits of farm fresh eggs. Depending on the size of a flock, there can be times when egg production becomes overwhelming.

We have had chickens for several years. Our flock began as a summer project for my children. When there was a higher production than expected, the kids wondered what to do with too many eggs. The summer project quickly turned into homeschool lessons on running a business selling farm fresh eggs. The kids learned about production rates, packaging, marketing, and more. There were even a couple of lessons on how predators impact profit and loss. Selling eggs is a great starter business for kids.

This summer we have had a significant decline in sales. A few egg customers began their own backyard coops in 2020. A quick google search confirms how backyard chicken coops gained booming popularity during the pandemic.

Our current flock includes 24 hens and a rooster. Chickens usually lay one egg per day depending on the season, breed, and age. Currently, we gather up to 24 eggs per day. Needless to say, we have an abundance of eggs.

When our flock began laying in early spring, we were quickly overwhelmed. I admit I considered a cookbook covering the many ways to bake with eggs, but there were just too many for us. I made some calls to local community service groups and found that most need and accept donations of farm fresh eggs.

We chose to donate our excess eggs to a local aid center. Although there is not a financial reward, the lessons of giving are far greater. My kids have eagerly gathered eggs and filled trays knowing there is no monetary benefit. Their hearts have been touched by the gratitude of workers at the center, and the knowledge that even a small act helps support the community.

I recently came across a social media post sharing #operationfreshegg from Purina. They estimate approximately one million households began new backyard flocks in 2020. The promotion encourages flock owners to spread the love by giving away eggs and sharing photos on social media. I think it’s a great idea to encourage community connection and to support our neighbors. The site offers free downloads of fun egg carton labels and greeting cards.

I do not plan to capture my family’s act of kindness to post on social media. That is not the lesson I want for them. I share our experience with the intent of encouraging other flock owners to donate extra eggs within your local community. If you do not have a needy neighbor, I’m sure there is a food bank or community aid organization that will accept farm fresh eggs. So gather those excess eggs and spread the love.