March 16, 2012

UK eggs to be stamped with EU-compliant logo

All UK eggs in compliance with EU requirements of conventional cage ban will now be marked with a Lion logo.

The British Egg Industry Council has also established a website www.legaleggs.com to promote domestic production.

It is noted that the UK egg industry has been justifiably concerned over importation of less-expensive eggs from the Continent, produced in cages which it held, represents unfair competition.

Since the EU was not inclined to take action against illegal production and movement of eggs within the Community, producers in the UK were forced to differentiate their product from eggs of questionable origin.

Producers in EU nations have had over 12 years to re-cage or convert to floor systems. It is estimated that over 50 million hens are still housed in conventional cages and the disposition of their eggs has not been regulated.

The British Lion Brand, which was originally introduced to confirm compliance with Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) prevention programmes, now serves a double function.  It will be necessary for egg producers in the UK to promote their brand through the chain of distribution extending from plant to consumer.