Egg-Laying Hens

Brittany Bennett, JD candidate’27

Standards for Labeling Eggs 

Consumers in the United States are well familiar with the confusing array of labels on egg cartons. From ‘cage-free’, ‘free-range’ to ‘humane’ and beyond, it can be virtually impossible to parse through the meaning behind animal raising claims on egg labels. Through her research, Brittany deciphers the legal framework behind egg labeling in the United States and suggests improvements to center consumer interests and animal welfare. Brittany describes her project below:

“In the fall and spring semesters of the Farmed Animal Protection Project course, I have worked on an article evaluating the federal regulatory framework of egg label claims. Specifically, my project focuses on animal raising and welfare claims for egg-laying hens. Labels such as “free-range” and “cage-free” adorn egg packaging with little explanation of what these terms mean or how hens’ welfare is considered. These claims, and many others, have no legal definition establishing specific requirements. Between the handful of federal agencies and sub-agencies involved with regulation and the abundance of different labels found on egg cartons, it can be unclear to consumers what these labels are claiming in regards to egg production. This uncertainty is a problem because many consumers care about humane treatment and want to buy products that reflect their values.

The reality of hens’ welfare in industrial animal agriculture does not align with many consumers’ perceptions of how these animals are actually raised. Current regulations are inadequate at protecting consumers and ensuring accurate representation of animal welfare standards. The promulgation of new regulations is needed to create stricter requirements for animal raising and welfare claims on egg labels. Before entering commerce, claims should be legally defined and subject to comprehensive approval and verification by federal agencies. Consumers deserve to understand the labels marketed to them and what they’re buying, especially when there is demand for humane products. Egg producers abiding by better welfare practices directly improve the lives of hens, which helps push the animal protection movement forward. Overall, increasing minimum standards for egg labeling is beneficial to both consumers and egg-laying hens.”