Farm Animals

Forced Molting in Laying Hens

Forced molting extends laying hen productivity by inducing a new egg-laying cycle through starvation or other stressors. This controversial practice remains common in egg production.

Key Facts

Forced molting typically involves withholding feed for 5 to 14 days
The practice extends a hens productive life for an additional laying cycle
Feed withdrawal causes hunger, weight loss, and significant physiological stress
Some countries have banned starvation-based molting in favor of low-nutrient diets
Around 75 percent of US egg farms still practice some form of forced molting

Welfare Considerations

Starvation-based forced molting causes acute hunger, weight loss of 25 to 35 percent of body mass, and stress-related immune suppression. Hens in molting programs show increased fearfulness and social disruption. Alternative non-starvation protocols using low-nutrient feeds exist and are less harmful but still stressful. The practice fundamentally treats laying hens as production units to be cycled rather than as sentient individuals with continuous welfare needs.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from producers who do not practice forced molting
Look for certifications that prohibit starvation-based molting
Reduce egg consumption or switch to higher-welfare alternatives
Advocate for legislative bans on starvation-based molting
Support organizations campaigning for improved laying hen welfare