We all love eggs, right? But do you really know what you’re getting when you’re choosing between different sizes of eggs? It can be a bit confusing to know what will work for what you need – so here’s a guide to egg sizes in a few markets.
Understanding egg sizes: Egg sizes are typically classified based on weight and are measured in grams or ounces. The most common size classifications are medium, large, extra-large, and jumbo – but the weights can vary; the USA seems to take the trophy for the heaviest weight classifications. Weight ranges can also vary across countries and regions due to different farming practices and breed variations.
In some countries, too, it’s worth noting eggs are classified by numbers such as 6,7 or 8 (NZ) or 0, 1, 2, 3 etc (UK). In most places, the weights and sizes are regulated by law or by egg producer bodies.
If you’re reading a recipe containing eggs, look for a size relevant to your area. If in doubt, most recipes will likely use large eggs. Though be aware that if you’re using old recipe books, especially for baking, they’ll likely have been using smaller eggs than we have now. This might affect your final result, so it could pay to weigh your eggs and compare to a smaller egg weight.
Global sizes
North America: In the United States and Canada, egg sizes are regulated by law, ensuring consistency across the market. The standard sizes range from small (under 53g), medium (53-63g), large (63-73g), extra-large (73-85g), to jumbo (over 85g). These sizes are widely used in recipes and cooking guidelines.
UK: The UK follows a different set of size classifications. In the past, they have followed a number system (with 0 being the largest and 7 the smallest), but have now moved to a new system that’s somewhat simpler. Sizes range from very small (under 53g), small (53-63g), medium (63-73g), large (73-63g), to very large (over 73g).
Europe: Egg sizes are standardised throughout the E.U. and are in 10g weight bands, similar to the UK: Very Large or XL: Over 73g; Large or L: 73g – 63g; Medium or M: 63g – 53g; Small or S: Under 53g.
New Zealand: New Zealand uses an apparently individual system, with eggs being sold by grade (4, 5, 6, 7, 8), based on a minimum size for the grade, and also often using a size name. Jumbo (8): 68g; Large (7): 62g; Standard (6): 53g; Medium (5): 44g and Mixed grade which is a selection of different sized eggs.
Australia: Egg sizes are categorised as medium (43g), large (52g), extra-large (60g), jumbo (68g) and king-sized (73g).
Other countries
Many other countries have their own ways of classifying egg sizes. In Japan you’ll see SS, S, M, ML, L and LL. In Post-Soviet countries you’ll see Highest, Select, First, Second and Third grades. And in a few countries including Thailand and the US, you might spy some small eggs called Peewee! So if you’re traveling and cooking, it’s worth checking the local egg guide to make your egg dishes as good as they can be.
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