The maternal diet is believed to influence infant health, as does diet in early life following the introduction of solid foods. Eggs, commonly available and low in cost, contain nutrients that may be of benefit during pregnancy as well as during weaning. Key nutrients include vitamin D, folate, iodine, selenium and long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids). Data from a recent nutritional analysis of eggs are presented and put in context with dietary reference values for the UK. The safety aspects of eggs, including food safety and allergy, are also discussed.