Bid to improve image of eggs
UK - Poultry farmers fearful of the costs of complying with new EU welfare regulations have been told not to worry. For advisors say the benefits in improving the industry's image will far outstrip the expense of introducing the changes.Millions of eggs are still produced under the old, cramped battery system, one of the most conspicuous targets for animal welfare organisations' campaigns.
Years of pressure have now paid off and conventional cages are about to be phased out. Dozens of producers are making the switch already and the entire UK industry should have introduced the larger, welfare-friendly cages by the time the old ones are outlawed in 2012.
With cheap egg imports, particularly from Spain and mainly destined for the catering sector, still undercutting British prices, UK producers are beginning to worry about recouping the massive investment necessary to introduce the so-called enriched cages. Not only must these new cages allow extra floor space per bird, they must also include perches, a nest box and scratching/foraging area.
Source: Hoovers
13 April 2005
1 minute read
