January 9, 2008

UK targets only free-range eggs by 2010

UK shoppers are assured of only free-range eggs being available in major supermarkets within two years.

Major stores have started clearing their shelves of eggs from caged birds four years before the introduction of an EU law to eliminate the practice of keeping birds in tiny cages.

Sainsbury's, the Co-op and Morrisons are some of the companies which have agreed to ban eggs from caged birds. Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are already selling only free-range eggs in the UK.

The chains will phase out battery hen eggs over the next two years, following the announcement of an EU ban on battery cages by 2012.

Asda and Tesco have fully confirmed yet, but have cut back shelf space given for battery hen eggs.