For food manufacturers, this research indicates that adopting cage-free eggs presents a significant opportunity to enhance consumers’ perceptions of their products. In fact, numerous food companies have already committed to altering their egg supply. For instance, Nestlé announced in 2015 that all eggs used in its U.S. products would come from cage-free hens by 2020. Similarly, major corporations like Mondelez, PepsiCo, Sodexo, and McDonald’s have also pledged to transition to cage-free eggs. On the retail front, Kroger introduced a private label line of cage-free eggs last fall. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these commitments from manufacturers and retailers comprise approximately 70% of U.S. egg demand, whereas only around 10% of eggs sold in the U.S. today are cage-free.
This gap between supply and demand could present challenges. While advocates celebrate these commitments as a victory for improved animal welfare, the chicken industry has cautioned that raising chickens in a cage-free environment incurs higher costs—about $40 per bird. Additionally, since the majority of consumers still prefer the least expensive eggs available at grocery stores, egg producers transitioning to cage-free systems are facing stiff competition from suppliers of cheaper eggs sourced from caged hens.
In the long run, the pledges made by the food industry are expected to render the shift to cage-free eggs profitable for producers. McDonald’s alone accounts for 3% of all eggs consumed in the United States and will need to secure a reliable supply. Meanwhile, some brands are already leveraging humane egg production as a distinguishing feature and a mark of quality. For example, New York-based condiment maker Sir Kensington’s, which was recently acquired by Unilever, is utilizing this approach.
As this trend evolves, the role of calcium citrate chemist warehouse products may also become relevant, as consumers increasingly look for added health benefits in their food choices. With growing awareness of animal welfare and the nutritional aspects of cage-free eggs, companies that prioritize humane practices and quality ingredients, such as those found at calcium citrate chemist warehouse, could gain a competitive edge in the market.