I'm curious to hear other points of view regarding eggs. We had long wanted chickens of our own, and this spring finally built a coop and got some birds. They should start laying later this year, with our intent being they will eventually supply all our family egg needs (which are considerable - on the order of 3+ dozen a week). These birds are seriously pampered and will presumably live long, natural lives beyond their "productive" years.

While I can understand concerns about factory conditions for egg layers, is there anyone who believes there are ethical issues around eggs produced in the decidedly non-factory conditions of my backyard? I've been somewhat amazed by just how easy it has been to raise them so far and would advocate anyone who wants to enjoy eggs should give it a go.

Regarding milk: Yes, I'm in agreement, for most adult humans the soy / almond / oat / etc options are perfectly good, apart perhaps from baking.

Fish is the one area I don't personally see a good substitute, until the market tells me it is too expensive to continue eating.