Egg Yolk is a fresh, whole food and a NOVA group 1 source of complete protein, with vitamin B12, vitamin D and selenium, and no added sugar or salt. It is a source of vitamin D, selenium and vitamin B12. Work out the numbers for any portion and age below, then see the full breakdown.
The numbers that matter most here are protein, saturated fat and salt. The tables below set each against age-appropriate guidance.
One egg yolk (about 18g) provides about 2.9g of protein, supplying amino acids the body needs for growth and repair. Because children need less than adults, that portion covers a large share of a younger child's daily protein.
Egg Yolk is naturally high in fat, at about 4.86g per portion, though most of it is unsaturated. Only around 1.8g is saturated and there is 0g of added fat.
Percentages are share of the daily Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). Under UK and EU rules a food is a source of a nutrient at 15% NRV per 100g and high in it at 30%.
These tables show how the nutrients compare to daily needs across different ages, using UK Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNIs). This differs from the source of and high in labels above, which use the single adult figure (NRV) set for food packaging. Children's needs are lower, so a portion goes further.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones; oily fish is one of the few natural food sources. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 1ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Selenium helps protect cells from damage and supports the immune system. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 10ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system, and is found almost only in animal foods. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 0ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Folate is needed to make healthy red blood cells and is especially important before and during pregnancy. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 26ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Phosphorus works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 70mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Vitamin A supports vision, healthy skin and the immune system. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 68ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Iron is needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body. One egg yolk (about 18g) contains 0.49mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target. Girls aged 11 and over and women need more iron (14.8mg) because of menstrual losses.
No. Egg Yolk is about as unprocessed as food gets, a NOVA group 1 whole food with nothing added.
Nutrition data from McCance and Widdowson and UK FoodData Central, per 100g raw edible portion; values are reference figures and can vary by variety and ripeness. Reference intakes: EU NRVs for labelling and UK RNIs (SACN) for age-based needs. For guidance only.