Free-range egg production offers significant improvements over caged systems but welfare varies widely.
Free-range systems offer genuine advantages over cage systems — outdoor access, space to move, and better opportunities for natural behaviour. However, large free-range flocks often have poor range use rates, with hens near the shed entrance getting outdoor access while those further in rarely venture outside. Range quality, enrichment, and management quality are critical determinants of whether free-range labels deliver their welfare promise.