Welfare of Laying Hens in Forced Molting Programs

Forced molting extends the productive life of laying hens by inducing a molt through feed withdrawal, causing significant suffering.

Key Facts

Feed withdrawal for up to 14 days was used to force molt in US flocks
The practice causes acute starvation stress and increased mortality
Non-feed-withdrawal alternatives including low-nutrient diets are now available
Some US states and the EU have restricted or banned feed withdrawal molting
Forced molting extends laying by 6-12 months per hen

Welfare Considerations

Feed withdrawal to force molt causes prolonged hunger stress, with hens showing foraging frustration behaviors and increased aggression. Mortality rates during traditional feed withdrawal molting are substantially higher than baseline. Hens show elevated stress hormones and immunosuppression. While alternatives to feed withdrawal are available, many operations continue to use feed withdrawal where it remains legal. This is an example of industry practice prioritizing economics over animal welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose eggs from farms certified as not using feed withdrawal molting
Support state legislation banning feed withdrawal molting
Advocate for USDA regulation of forced molting practices
Support organizations working on farm animal welfare legislation