Laying Hen Welfare: Cages, Barns, and Free Range

The global shift away from battery cages for laying hens has been one of the biggest welfare wins of the past decade, but significant welfare challenges remain across all systems.

Key Facts

Around 8 billion laying hens are kept globally, producing approximately 1.4 trillion eggs per year
Battery cages were banned in the EU in 2012 but remain legal in many countries including parts of the US
Colony cages allowed in the EU after 2012 still severely restrict natural behaviours
Barn systems improve space but can lead to severe feather pecking without adequate management
Free-range systems offer better welfare outcomes but vary significantly by stocking density and pasture access
Cage-free transitions are ongoing globally driven by corporate commitments and some legislation

Welfare Considerations

The cage-free movement has achieved remarkable progress, but cage-free alone does not guarantee high welfare. Feather pecking, keel bone fractures from perch falls, and foot problems remain common in cage-free systems. High welfare egg production requires breed selection, enrichment, appropriate stocking density, and outdoor access — not just the absence of cages.

What You Can Do

Buy free-range or higher-welfare certified eggs rather than barn or caged
Reduce overall egg consumption or switch to plant-based alternatives
Support campaigns for cage-free commitments to be honoured by companies that have pledged
Advocate for minimum space and enrichment standards in cage-free regulations
Share information about the variety of egg production systems and their welfare implications