Tag: Egg labeling

According to the USDA, the cage-free flock in the U.S. increased significantly in the first half of 2023, reflecting growing consumer interest in hen welfare. But many consumers still question which is better, cage-free eggs or pasture-raised eggs, when considering factors like animal treatment, nutrition, and price.

According to the United Egg Producers, nearly 40% of all hens in the US were in cage-free production by the end of 2024, a significant rise from previous years. So, what's the point of cage-free eggs, and why is this trend gaining such momentum? The answer lies in consumer ethics, hen welfare, and changing industry standards.

Chickens are naturally omnivores, eating insects, grains, and plants. Therefore, the label 'vegetarian-fed' is often more of a marketing tactic than an indicator of a superior or healthier egg. It is crucial for consumers to understand the specifics of this labeling to make an informed choice about whether vegetarian-fed eggs are truly better.

Overwhelmingly, the global consensus and legal definitions confirm that barn-raised hens do not have access to outdoor pastures. This means that the answer to 'Are barn eggs hen picked free-range?' is a straightforward no, a fact that helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions based on their values.

According to research from the American Egg Board, egg labels typically refer to farming methods rather than significant nutritional differences unless the feed is fortified. Understanding the core farming practices is key to grasping what is the difference between free-range eggs and barn laid eggs.

According to one study, consumer demand for ethically produced eggs has led to a steady rise in sales of organic and free-range options over the last decade. But with so many labels on the carton, it can be confusing to know which eggs are better: free-range or cage-free?

According to USDA data, consumer demand for pasture-raised eggs has steadily increased over the past decade due to perceived health and ethical benefits. This has many health-conscious shoppers asking: **Does Costco carry organic pasture raised eggs?** The answer is yes, but availability is not guaranteed at every location, and stock can be inconsistent due to supply chain factors.

The CDC estimates that eggs contaminated with *Salmonella* cause approximately 79,000 cases of foodborne illness and 30 deaths every year in the U.S.. Given these risks, it is not surprising that eggs are regulated by various agencies to protect consumer health and ensure quality.

According to the BC SPCA, 68% of laying hens in British Columbia are still confined to cages, highlighting the ethical importance of understanding egg labels. Making a mindful choice in the grocery store aisle often comes down to deciphering what terms like "free-range" and "free run" truly mean for hen welfare and the eggs they produce.

In recent years, the market for specialty eggs has boomed, with over 40% of U.S. egg-laying hens now in cage-free systems as of March 2024. However, navigating terms like 'free-range' and 'pasture-raised' can be confusing for consumers aiming to make ethical and healthier choices. This article compares these two popular egg types to help you decide which is better for you.