The global transition away from conventional battery cages toward cage-free egg production is the largest farm animal welfare reform in history. Understanding progress and welfare implications matters for advocates.
The transition to cage-free egg production represents genuine welfare progress for hundreds of millions of hens globally, but the degree of improvement depends significantly on system design and management quality. Cage-free hens gain access to perches, nest boxes, and litter for dust bathing — behaviours that are entirely prevented in conventional cages. However, poorly designed or managed cage-free systems can have higher rates of injurious pecking and disease. Good cage-free systems with adequate space, structural enrichment, and good management produce substantially better welfare outcomes. Consumer demand for certified higher-welfare eggs creates the market incentive driving this transition. Continued pressure for full implementation of corporate commitments is essential.