World Egg Day 2026 will highlight the nutritional benefits of eggs, their affordability and accessibility, and their role in improving food security and public health, according to a press note by the Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council (BPICC) and World's Poultry Science Association (WPSA).
First observed in 1996 following an initiative by the International Egg Commission (IEC) at a conference in Vienna, Austria, the day marks its 30th anniversary this year.
The international theme for 2026 is “Protein That Powers and Protects”, highlighting the role of high-quality protein in eggs in supporting muscle growth, brain development, immune function and healthy ageing. The anniversary mascot, Eggwin, has also been introduced to raise awareness about egg nutrition among people of all ages.
The observance, to be held on Friday, aims to promote eggs as an affordable source of protein and essential nutrients, highlight their importance in meeting the nutritional needs of people of all ages, recognise the contributions of poultry farmers and the industry, and address misconceptions about egg consumption.
Nutritional benefits of eggs
Eggs contain high-quality protein and essential nutrients, including choline, iron and vitamin B12, which support muscle development, brain function and overall health.
Choline, found in egg yolks, plays an important role in brain development and nervous system function. Eggs also contain the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect eye health.
Eggs are widely recognised as an affordable and versatile source of nutrition. Compared with beef and mutton, egg production generally has a lower environmental footprint, making eggs an important protein source in efforts to promote more sustainable food systems.
Poultry farming also contributes to rural livelihoods by providing income and employment for farmers and small-scale producers.
Egg production and availability in Bangladesh
According to the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), Bangladesh produces approximately 24.465 billion eggs annually, averaging more than 60 million a day. Annual per capita egg availability stands at around 137.
The government and relevant agencies are working to increase annual per capita availability to 200 eggs by 2030.
However, rising prices of poultry feed, chicks, medicines and fuel have increased production costs for farmers. Meanwhile, intermediaries and inefficiencies in the supply chain have widened the gap between farm-gate and retail prices, putting pressure on small-scale producers.
Eggs have also been incorporated into the National School Feeding Programme under the Directorate of Primary Education, with two to three eggs a week planned for each student to help address malnutrition and support children's growth and cognitive development.
Global egg production and consumption
China is the world's largest egg producer, producing approximately 617 billion eggs annually, according to the information provided in the release.
Mexico leads in per capita egg consumption, with an average of 409 eggs a year. Japan also records high consumption, at around 337 eggs annually.
Annual per capita consumption in many developed countries ranges from 270 to 300 eggs, while availability and consumption in Bangladesh remain comparatively low.
Nationwide programs planned
To mark World Egg Day, the Department of Livestock Services, the Bangladesh branch of the World's Poultry Science Association and the Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council have jointly taken initiatives to raise awareness about the nutritional value of eggs.
Under the theme “Nutrition in eggs, energy in eggs, and immunity from disease through eggs”, the programs include awareness rallies, seminars and discussions at agricultural universities across the country.
Other activities include distributing free eggs to underprivileged children, orphanages and residents of old-age homes, including in Dhaka, to help improve access to nutritious food.
The initiatives aim to encourage greater awareness of the role of eggs in a balanced diet and highlight the contributions of poultry farmers and the wider industry to food security and nutrition.
