The transition from conventional battery cages to enriched colony cages and cage-free systems has improved laying hen welfare in many countries. Understanding the welfare differences helps consumers and advocates assess progress.
The welfare trajectory for laying hens has improved significantly as battery cages have been phased out across much of Europe and increasingly in North America. Enriched colony cages allow nest use, perching, and some scratching, representing genuine welfare improvements over conventional cages. Cage-free systems with well-managed litter, appropriate lighting, and adequate feeders allow hens to express natural behaviours including dustbathing, wing-spreading, and foraging. However, challenges persist: high-density cage-free systems without adequate management can see elevated mortality from aggression and disease compared to well-managed cage systems. Free-range systems provide the greatest behavioural freedom but require adequate outdoor space, protection from predators, and weather shelter.