Understanding Egg Labels and Packaging Claims
With the UK consuming a staggering 12 billion eggs each year, it’s important to understand what the various labels on egg cartons really mean.
Understanding Egg Labels in UK Supermarkets
With the UK consuming a staggering 12 billion eggs each year, it’s important to understand what the various labels on egg cartons really mean. While eggs are a staple of many households, not all eggs are created equal. Labels like "organic," "free-range," and "farm fresh" often confuse shoppers. Knowing how to decipher these terms can help you make healthier and more ethical choices when buying eggs.
Organic Eggs
Organic eggs are held to the highest standards, regulated by the Soil Association. Organic farms must adhere to strict rules that prioritise animal welfare, ensuring the highest quality for both the chickens and the eggs they produce.
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Smaller flock sizes: Organic farms limit the number of chickens to 2,000 per flock, compared to 16,000 in free-range systems. This means less crowding and more space for the hens to move.
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No beak trimming: Unlike most free-range systems where hens are routinely beak-trimmed to prevent aggressive behavior, organic systems prohibit this painful practice, allowing the birds to engage in their natural foraging behaviors.
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GM-free feed: Organic hens are fed a diet free from genetically modified (GM) ingredients...
