The movement to ban conventional battery cages for laying hens represents one of the most significant farm animal welfare policy advances, though significant challenges remain.
Conventional battery cages represent one of the most extreme confinement systems in modern agriculture. Hens in battery cages cannot spread their wings, take more than a step or two, or engage in virtually any natural behaviors. The frustration of being unable to perform strongly motivated behaviors like dust bathing, perching, and foraging causes significant psychological suffering. While cage-free systems are a meaningful improvement, they come with their own welfare challenges including greater aggression, disease pressure, and in some systems, inadequate resources for the flock. Free-range and pasture systems with genuine outdoor access provide the best welfare outcomes, though at higher cost. Consumer and legislative pressure has been the primary driver of industry change, demonstrating the power of collective action.