A simple water test can help confirm freshness and quality. Place the egg gently into a bowl of cold water. A fresh, high-quality egg will sink and lie flat on the bottom. As eggs age, air pockets inside grow larger. An egg that stands upright or floats is older and less desirable. Eggs from healthy chickens tend to have smaller air cells initially because their shells are better formed and retain moisture longer.
Beyond the egg itself, understanding why healthy chickens produce better eggs adds important context. Chickens that are allowed to roam outdoors, scratch in the dirt, and forage naturally experience less stress and eat a more diverse diet. This leads to eggs with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, more vitamins such as A, D, and E, and a richer flavor overall