When we buy eggs, it is common to notice a number printed on the shell. Many ignore this detail, but he says a lot about how the chicken was created and even about the origin of the product. Knowing how to interpret this code helps make more conscious choices.
The first digit in eggshell is the most important: indicates the type of production. From “0” to “3”, each number corresponds to different creation conditions. This classification follows the rules of the European Union and is mandatory in all countries.
In addition to the number, letters appear that identify the country of origin (PT to Portugal, ES for Spain, FR to France, among others) and a sequence of digits that allows to track the exploration from where eggs came.
0 – Biological eggs
When the code starts with “0”, it means that the chicken was created in a biological system. This implies access to the outdoor, space for walking, stripping and weakening, but also a feed based on biological agriculture feed.
This is the most restrictive and valued type of production, not only in terms of animal welfare, but also by the requirement of food-free foods.
1 – Eggs in the field
The number “1” in the shell corresponds to the so -called field eggs. Here there is also access to the outdoor, with freedom to walk and express natural behaviors such as scrutiny and weakening.
The difference with biological is in food: chickens do not have to feed exclusively on biological agriculture products.
2 – Chickens raised on the soil
Code “2” indicates chickens raised on the ground. In this case, animals can move freely inside the pavilion, but do not have access to the outside.
It is an intermediate production, where there is mobility, but without the possibility of exploring outdoor spaces.
3 – Chickens in cage
The number “3” represents chickens raised in cage. It is still the most common system in several European countries, despite criticism of animal welfare organizations.
The European Union defines minimum standards for this type of production, but it is an intensive regime, where mobility is more limited.
The role of letters and digits
After the number, come the letters that identify the country of origin. “PT” means Portugal, “ES” Spain, “fr” France, and so on. It is a quick way to see where the eggs that arrive at the table came from.
The remaining digits allow you to identify specific exploitation. It is through them that traceability is ensured, an essential element for food security.
Information validated by Mercado
This explanation is not just a curiosity: it is part of the information released by itself, available on its official website. The supermarket chain highlights precisely this code as a way to give transparency to the consumer and reinforce confidence in the quality and traceability of its products.
For those who do everyday shopping, this is a proof of how a simple detail on the package can be safely translated on the plate.
Interpreting this code helps consumers distinguish production methods and make decisions aligned with their preferences. Some give priority to animal welfare, others to the price, but the information is available to everyone.
This is a practical example of how a discreet brand in the shell can give transparency to the entire food chain.
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