When the feed for laying hens is adjusted to contain more alpha-linolenic acid, the eggs produced contain higher levels of omega-3 long-chain fatty acids including EPA and DHA.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that when hens are fed more alpha-linolenic acid, their eggs tend to contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA [1]. This pattern was observed across all 10 studies we reviewed, with no studies showing the opposite result. Alpha-linolenic acid is a plant-based omega-3 found in flaxseed, chia, and walnuts. When hens eat feed enriched with it, their bodies convert some of this compound into longer-chain omega-3s like EPA and DHA, which then end up in the egg yolk. These longer-chain forms are the same ones linked to heart and brain health in humans. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far leans toward the idea that changing hen feed directly affects the omega-3 content in eggs. We didn’t find any data suggesting this effect doesn’t happen, but we also didn’t see details on how much feed change is needed, how long it takes, or whether the increase is large enough to make a meaningful difference in human diets. What this means for someone buying eggs is that if you’re looking to get more omega-3s from eggs, choosing ones from hens fed flaxseed or other alpha-linolenic acid-rich diets may help — but the exact amount of omega-3s can still vary by brand and farming practices. Always check the nutrition label to see how much EPA and DHA are actually in the egg.