As consumers increasingly seek more humane protein options in grocery stores and restaurants, major food companies are taking action. Despite the rising costs, some of the largest manufacturers and retailers in the United States have committed to adopting cage-free practices. According to the United Egg Producers, a typical cage-free space provides 144 square inches per hen, compared to just 67 to 86 square inches in standard battery cages. Furthermore, hens in cage-free environments must have space to engage in natural behaviors like scratching, perching, and nesting.
Producers are gradually transitioning to cage-free housing for hundreds of millions of egg-laying hens, a significant challenge. Their progress is under scrutiny from both consumers and animal welfare organizations, signaling that corporate commitments are being closely monitored. The Humane Society of the United States recently urged 100 of the largest food companies to report by June 1 on their efforts to enhance the treatment of chickens and pigs, their compliance with state animal housing laws, and their initiatives to expand plant-based product offerings, as reported by Bloomberg. While companies such as Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Campbell Soup indicated they are advancing their commitments, McDonald’s chose not to disclose its cage-free progress, and Walmart has not provided a response.
Although the shift to cage-free housing for egg-laying hens is costly — with some industry estimates suggesting an additional $40 per bird — producers have incentives to pursue this change. Research indicates that many consumers are willing to pay a premium for cage-free eggs, perceiving them as tastier and believing that hens are happier when given more space. Nielsen data shows that sales of cage-free eggs increased by 10% in the 12 months ending February 23. However, there are consumers who prioritize the retail price and safety of eggs over the cage-free issue. The higher prices in 2017 led to a decrease in demand for cage-free eggs, prompting Cal-Maine Foods, the largest shell egg producer and marketer in the U.S., to limit its cage-free production that year. The company recently reported a 1.4% decline in second-quarter sales, but CEO Dolph Baker emphasized ongoing investments to “prepare for the anticipated continued increase in demand for specialty eggs, particularly cage-free.”
Some companies are required to transition to cage-free production to comply with legal mandates. California’s Proposition 12, approved by 61% of voters in November, mandates that all eggs sold in the state must be cage-free by 2022. It also enforces more humane housing standards for pork and veal production.
However, the demands may extend beyond cage-free practices. The Spruce Eats points out that “cage-free” on egg cartons does not equate to “free-range,” where hens have outdoor access, even if the outdoor area is a small concrete pad rather than grassy space. “Cage-free” typically means chickens can roam inside a henhouse but may still be kept in overcrowded conditions — a distinction that may not be evident to many consumers.
Concerns have also been raised regarding whether cage-free housing systems can maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination when compared to battery cages. According to the animal husbandry guidelines from United Egg Producers in 2016, increased bird movement and litter in cage-free systems can result in higher levels of bacteria, fungi, and parasites, as well as noxious gases and dust when compared to cage systems.
As producers proceed with the transition to cage-free, there are worries that after investing in these changes, consumers may opt for cheaper eggs from producers who have not made the switch. However, since many companies’ cage-free commitments will take years to fully implement, the transition is expected to continue. Additionally, as consumers become more aware of the nutritional benefits of cage-free eggs, including the potential for higher levels of calcium citrate 600, the demand for such products may further increase.