Cage-Free Transition Has Consequences
A study by the United Egg Producers (a marketing group for industrial egg farmers) analyzed the potential effects of a total industry transition to cage-free production of eggs in the U.S. The study suggests there could be unintended economic and environmental consequences.
A full transition to cage-free eggs in the United States could lead to unintended consequences, according to the United Egg Producers, which predicts the following:
- The cost of eggs to consumers would increase by 25% or more.
- The cost of eggs for government nutrition programs would increase by $169 million/year.
- Egg imports could increase from zero to 7 billion eggs/year.
- The carbon footprint of egg production would increase, as cage-free systems require 15-25% more feed and produce smaller and fewer eggs.
- The cost for producers to convert to cage-free systems would be about $7.5 billion, including the cost for additional land. Permits would also be a “major obstacle.”
 ANIMALS USED FOR FOOD |
Animal Law | Factory Farming | Human Health | Living Conditions | “Humane” Farming | Poultry
United Egg Producers, United Egg Producers, 2009 United States (National)
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