Farm Animal Welfare

Cage-Free Egg Transition Corporate Progress

Corporate cage-free egg commitments have driven significant industry change, but transition progress has slowed and enforcement of commitments requires ongoing pressure.

Key Facts

Over 2,000 companies globally have made cage-free egg commitments, mostly due by 2025
US cage-free egg production reached approximately 30% of total production in 2023
EU cage ban in 2027 will apply to enriched colonies, but some lobby groups seek delays
Surveys show many corporate signatories have made limited progress toward their commitments
Open Wing Alliance has documented and named companies lagging on their commitments

Welfare Considerations

The cage-free egg transition represents one of the largest corporate animal welfare commitments in history, driven by advocacy campaigns targeting food companies. However, commitment without implementation delivers no welfare benefit. The gap between pledged and actual transitions is a significant welfare concern, as hens remain in enriched colony systems that provide minimal space and no opportunity for key natural behaviours pending promised improvements.

What You Can Do

Check whether your favourite food brands have fulfilled their cage-free commitments
Support Open Wing Alliance and HSI campaigns monitoring corporate progress
Contact laggard companies directly about their cage-free commitment timelines
Choose eggs from cage-free or higher-welfare certified sources
Advocate for EU cage ban to proceed on schedule without derogations