British egg producers have invested £400m to meet new legislation that came into force on New Year’s Day and banned battery cages across Europe.
However, it has emerged that many producers in European countries have failed to adopt these new 'enriched' welfare standards.
As a result, the NFU, British Egg Industry Council and British egg farmers are extremely concerned that eggs produced by hens housed illegally in old-style battery cages may enter the food chain in this country – therefore undermining both the investment UK farmers have made and their commitment to higher welfare.
Because of the very serious risk these eggs pose to the future of the industry, the NFU, BEIC and Defra have been engaging with some the country’s leading supermarkets, food chains, food processors and manufacturers. Those who have said they will not source eggs from producers using the old-style cages are listed below.
So, who are the 'good eggs'? Who has confirmed a commitment not to source from producers using old-style cages?
STOP PRESS: Companies added 12 March 2012:
Samworth Brothers - chilled foods
Chatwins - Cheshire/Staffordshire bakery firm
Are you a good egg? If you would like to join our list please email us here confirming your sourcing policy.
Visit the British Lion eggs page here to pledge your support
Facebook - The Good Egg, Bad Egg Campaign
- Rupert Best - 26/01/2012
Question have ALL Government Departments and Agencies signed up? If not, who not? Ditto County and District Councils, LEA Schools, etc?
- Michelle - 23/01/2012
What can consumers do when they find themselves shopping at UK retailers who continue only stock caged eggs? One local shop continues to stock ONLY caged eggs. I have spoken with the store workers, but they say they do not control what stock is sent to the store.
- Clarke - 19/01/2012
What a pity that all British egg producers did not comply with the new regulations.