Cage-Free Transition Progress: Corporate Commitments and Implementation

Corporate cage-free egg commitments by hundreds of food companies are translating into the largest welfare improvement for laying hens in history. Tracking implementation progress monitors whether commitments become reality.

Key Facts

Over 2,000 companies globally have made cage-free egg commitments since 2015.
As of 2023, approximately 30-35% of US egg production is cage-free, up from under 10% in 2015.
The EU cage-free transition is legislated for 2027 but faces implementation challenges in some member states.
Open Wing Alliance tracks corporate commitment progress globally, naming companies that have and have not met their pledges.
Supply-side investment in cage-free housing has accelerated as commitments create market demand.

Welfare Considerations

Corporate cage-free commitments represent one of the most successful welfare advocacy campaigns in history, mobilizing market forces to drive supply chain transformation that legislation alone has been unable to achieve. The translation of commitments into actual housing transitions is uneven — some companies meet commitments on schedule while others delay or weaken their pledges. Tracking and publicizing commitment progress creates accountability that encourages follow-through. The welfare improvement for hens transitioned from conventional cages to cage-free systems is substantial and irreversible once supply chain investment is made.

What You Can Do

Follow Open Wing Alliance progress tracking on corporate cage-free commitment implementation.
Actively support companies meeting cage-free commitments with your purchasing.
Contact companies that are behind schedule on commitments to maintain accountability pressure.
Support Humane Society and HSUS campaigns monitoring and enforcing corporate welfare commitments.
Choose cage-free or free-range eggs to create market demand supporting the transition.