Abstract

The present study was carried out to compare the physicochemical characteristics of eggs of guinea fowl, turkeys and domestic chickens outdoor reared in traditional farms in Baghdad, Iraq. A total of 166 fresh eggs; 32 eggs from guinea fowls (Numida meleagris), 44 eggs from turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) and 90 eggs from domestic chickens; were collected. Egg weight, percentage of egg components, chemical composition (protein, lipids, and ash), and lipid profile were determined. Results revealed the significant differences in egg weight among studied birds. The average egg weights for guinea fowl, turkey, and indigenous chicken were 83.15 ± 0.72, 92.41 ± 0.78 and 61.28 ± 0.62 g, respectively. No significant differences were found in egg components and the chemical composition of the edible portions of the eggs among studied birds. However, the lipid profile of egg yolk indicated that egg cholesterol and LDL levels were significantly higher in guinea fowl and turkey compared with those in indigenous chickens, whereas native chicken has high values of HDL compared to guinea fowl and turkey. There were no significant differences in the triglyceride level in egg yolks among the studied fowls. In conclusion, although egg weight was significantly different among studied birds, eggs of guinea fowl, turkeys, and domestic chickens were similar in nutritional components.