What effects the yolk colour in a free range egg as opposed to store bought mass produced eggs?

The color of an egg yolk is primarily determined by the pigment carotenoids in the hen's diet, not whether the egg is free-range or mass-produced.

Here's a breakdown:

Free-Range Eggs:

* More variety in yolk color: Free-range hens have access to a wider variety of plants and insects, which can contribute to a range of carotenoid levels in their diet. This means their yolks might be darker yellow, orange, or even reddish.

* Not guaranteed darker yolks: Free-range doesn't automatically mean darker yolks. If a free-range hen's diet is low in carotenoids, their yolks might be pale.

Mass-Produced Eggs:

* Consistent yolk color: Hens in mass production settings are fed a controlled diet with consistent levels of carotenoids. This results in yolks with a more uniform color, often a pale yellow.

* Artificial colorants: Some producers add artificial colorants to their feed to achieve a desired yolk color, even if it doesn't reflect the hen's natural diet.

In summary:

* Free-range eggs might have darker yolks, but it's not guaranteed.

* Yolk color doesn't necessarily indicate quality or nutritional value.

* The pigment carotenoids are the key factor in yolk color.

It's important to remember that the color of an egg yolk doesn't tell you everything about the egg's quality or nutritional value. You should look for other factors like:

* Freshness: The date the egg was packaged is a good indicator.

* Storage conditions: Make sure the eggs are stored properly in the refrigerator.

* Ethical farming practices: Consider factors like cage-free, pasture-raised, or organic certifications.