Eggs are not dairy products. Eggs and dairy both provide protein, but dairy products come from the milk of mammals such as cows, whereas eggs come from birds such as hens or ducks.

People may think eggs are dairy because retailers often sell the two products close together, and people may group them together because they are both animal products and sources of protein.
Additionally, a vegan diet excludes both eggs and dairy, which may cause people to think they are the same type of product.
This article looks at the difference between dairy products and eggs, the potential health benefits of eggs, and whether eggs are safe for people with lactose intolerance.
Dairy products consist of the milk of a mammal, such as cows, goats, or sheep. They include:
Eggs and dairy products share some common properties, which may lead people to assume that eggs are a dairy product.
Dairy products and eggs are both high in protein, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture categorizes them as protein foods. One cup of whole milk contains
Both foods may also cause allergies in some people. Milk allergy and egg allergy are two of the most common allergies in children.
Inside the eggshell is albumen, the gel-like, white part of the egg. The egg white contains proteins and is about
The egg yolk, the yellow or orange center of the egg, also contains proteins. It has around 68% low-density lipoproteins and 16% high-density lipoproteins (HDLs).
The egg yolk has an outer membrane that prevents it from mixing with the egg white.
Eggs contain a wide range of nutrients. One whole, hard-boiled egg
- 6.3 g protein
- 25 milligrams (mg) calcium
- 63 mg potassium
- 0.555 micrograms of vitamin B12
Eggs also contain trace elements of most vitamins and minerals.
Egg yolk contains
The proteins in eggs
Eggs also contain:
- vitamin A
- lutein
- zeaxanthin
- folate
- phosphorus
Around
For many years, experts thought that foods containing dietary cholesterol were contributing to rises in blood cholesterol. However, research found insufficient evidence to support this theory.
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Can I eat eggs if I am lactose intolerant?
People with lactose intolerance can eat eggs, as they are not dairy products and do not contain lactose.
The
Ensuring a good intake of calcium is important for people with lactose intolerance. Vitamin D supports the body in absorbing and using calcium.
Learn about 18 dairy-free, calcium-rich foods here.
What can I substitute eggs with in a recipe?
If people do not want to use eggs in a recipe, they can try the following substitutes for one egg:
- Flaxseed: Mix 1 tablespoon (tbsp) ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water until it makes a thick and creamy mixture.
- Chia seeds: Mix 1 tbsp chia seeds with 1/3 cup of water. Leave for about 15 minutes until the chia seeds absorb the water and create a thick paste.
- Banana: Use half of a mashed banana. This is effective in baked goods such as cookies or brownies.
- Agar agar flakes: Mix 1 tbsp agar agar flakes or powder with 1 tbsp water.
- Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce in baking. This can also work as a replacement for butter or oil.
- Soft tofu: 1/4 cup soft tofu can add moisture and a creamy texture to recipes. People may also want to try scrambled tofu as a replacement for scrambled egg.
- Aquafaba: Use 3 tbsp chickpea water, also called aquafaba. Thicken on the stove if it is too watery.
People can also buy egg-replacement products in supermarkets or online. However, it is important to note that egg substitutes will not always contain the same nutrients as eggs would.
Eggs are not dairy products, although people often group the two together. However, both are animal products that are high in protein and may be displayed close together in shops.
Dairy products consist of the milk from mammals such as cows, goats, and sheep. Dairy includes milk and milk products, yogurt, cheese, butter, and cream.
Eggs come from birds, such as hens, ducks, or quails, which are not mammals and do not produce milk.
Eggs are high in protein and include many essential vitamins and minerals. They do not contain lactose, so are safe for people with lactose intolerance to eat unless they also have an egg allergy.