Head to head
Emu Egg vs Ostrich Egg
Size, color, taste, price, and hatching compared.
Emu and ostrich eggs are both giants of the bird world, but they are quite different. Ostrich eggs are larger and creamy white, while emu eggs are smaller and a striking dark green. Here is how they stack up so you can choose the right egg for eating, hatching, or art.
Side by side
Emu vs Ostrich
| Feature | Emu | Ostrich |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1 to 1.5 lb | about 3 lb |
| Equals (chicken eggs) | 10 to 12 | about 24 |
| Shell color | dark green | creamy white |
| Taste | rich, creamy | mild, creamy |
| Incubation | 50 to 55 days | about 42 days |
| Eating price | $25 | $40 |
| Hatching price | $45 | $100 |
Which Should You Choose
For eating, both are excellent, but an emu egg is the better value and easier to use in everyday cooking, while an ostrich egg is a true showstopper for a big gathering. For hatching, emu eggs take a little longer and run cooler in price, while ostrich eggs are larger and cost more. For art, emu shells win on color with their deep green, while ostrich shells offer a large, smooth ivory canvas.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, emu or ostrich?
Ostrich. It weighs about 3 pounds versus 1 to 1.5 for emu.
Which tastes better?
Both are mild and creamy. Emu is richer, ostrich is the bigger novelty.
Which is cheaper?
Emu. Eating eggs are $25 versus $40 for ostrich.
Which hatches faster?
Ostrich, at about 42 days versus 50 to 55 for emu.
Which has better shells for art?
Emu shells are prized for their dark green color.