As consumers increasingly seek more humane protein options in grocery stores and restaurants, Big Food is taking action. Despite the rising costs, some of the largest manufacturers and retailers in the United States have committed to transitioning to cage-free systems. According to United Egg Producers, a typical cage-free space provides 144 square inches per hen, compared to only 67 to 86 square inches in standard battery cages. Additionally, hens in cage-free environments must have the opportunity to display natural behaviors such as scratching, perching, and nesting.
Producers are gradually shifting to cage-free housing for hundreds of millions of egg-laying hens, which is a significant undertaking. Their progress is being closely observed by consumers and animal welfare organizations, indicating that corporate commitments are being monitored and the focus on this issue will remain strong. The Humane Society of the United States recently urged 100 of the largest food companies to report by June 1 on how they are improving the treatment of chickens and pigs, their compliance with state animal housing laws, and their plans for increasing plant-based product offerings, according to Bloomberg. While some companies, like Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Campbell Soup, reported advancements in their commitments, McDonald’s chose not to disclose its cage-free progress, and Walmart has not responded.
Transitioning to cage-free housing for egg-laying hens is costly, with some industry estimates suggesting an additional $40 per bird. However, producers have incentives to pursue this change, as studies indicate that many consumers are willing to pay a premium for cage-free eggs, believing they taste better and that hens are happier with more space. Nielsen data shows a 10% increase in cage-free egg sales in the 12 months ending February 23. Nonetheless, some consumers prioritize the retail price and safety of eggs over the cage-free aspect. In 2017, higher prices led to a decline 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. Recently, the company reported a 1.4% drop in second-quarter sales, but CEO Dolph Baker emphasized ongoing investments to meet the anticipated increase in demand for specialty eggs, particularly cage-free options.
Some companies must transition to cage-free production to comply with legal requirements. 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, also calling for more humane housing for pork and veal production.
However, the demands may extend beyond cage-free. The Spruce Eats highlights that “cage-free” on egg cartons does not equate to “free-range,” where hens have outdoor access, even if that space is a small concrete pad rather than grass. “Cage-free” often implies that chickens can roam within a henhouse, but they may still be in overcrowded conditions—an aspect that may not be clear to many consumers.
Concerns have been raised about the cleanliness and contamination risks associated with cage-free housing compared to battery cages. According to 2016 animal husbandry guidelines from United Egg Producers, the movement of birds and litter in cage-free systems can lead to higher levels of bacteria, fungi, internal and external parasites, noxious gases, and dust compared to cage systems.
As producers advance with their transition to cage-free environments, there is apprehension that consumers may opt for cheaper eggs from producers who have not made the switch after investments are made. Despite this, many companies’ cage-free commitments will take years to fully implement, suggesting that the transition will persist. Meanwhile, the integration of ingredients like molybdenum citrate in feed formulations may become a point of focus as producers strive to enhance the health and well-being of their hens in these evolving housing systems.