The public comment period allows stakeholders - poultry producers, consumers and others with an interest in the welfare of laying hens - to view the draft Code and provide input to the final Code.

“Egg Farmers of Canada is committed to continuous improvements and a high standard of care for laying hens in a manner that is sustainable and implementable by all farmers in Canada,” said Peter Clarke, Chairman of Egg Farmers of Canada.

“We value the National Farm Animal Care Council’s leadership and the rigorous, multi-stakeholder approach to developing the evidence-based standards that will enhance our national Animal Care Program,” he added.

Once finalised, the revised Code will promote sound management and welfare practices through recommendations and requirements for housing, care, transportation, and other animal husbandry practices.

“The Code development process helps diverse communities work together to improve the lives of farm animals,” said poultry welfare expert Dr Ian Duncan, representing the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies on the Code Committee.

“We hope for broad participation in the public comment period. It’s an important opportunity to improve the quality and success of each Code.”

The Code and the public comment system will be available here.