The typical color of an egg yolk is yellow to orange, which is primarily influenced by the hen's diet. The presence of carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, found in foods like green leafy vegetables, corn, and marigold petals, affects the pigmentation of the yolk. Hens that consume a diet rich in these pigments will produce darker yolks, whereas those with a less pigmented diet will yield lighter-colored yolks. The color of an egg yolk does not significantly affect its nutritional value or quality but can be an indicator of the hen's diet and overall health.