This study indicates that for food manufacturers, the adoption of cage-free eggs presents a significant opportunity to enhance consumers’ perceptions of their products. Many food companies have already committed to transitioning their egg supply. For instance, Nestlé announced in 2015 that by 2020, all eggs used in its U.S. products would come from cage-free hens. Other major players, such as Mondelez, PepsiCo, Sodexo, and McDonald’s, have also pledged to utilize 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, the combined commitments of manufacturers and retailers account for approximately 70% of the U.S. egg demand, yet only about 10% of the eggs sold in the country are currently cage-free. This gap raises concerns; while advocates celebrate these pledges as a victory for animal welfare, the chicken industry warns that raising hens in a cage-free environment incurs higher costs—around $40 per bird. Furthermore, the majority of consumers still prefer the cheapest eggs available, putting egg producers who switch to cage-free options in fierce competition with suppliers of less expensive eggs from caged hens.
In the long term, these commitments from the food industry are expected to make the shift to cage-free eggs more profitable for producers. For example, McDonald’s represents 3% of all eggs consumed in the United States, necessitating a reliable supply of cage-free eggs. Meanwhile, some brands are already leveraging humane egg production as a distinguishing feature and a hallmark of quality. An example is Sir Kensington’s, a condiment maker based in New York, which was recently acquired by Unilever.
Incorporating high-quality ingredients, such as the best liquid calcium citrate, is increasingly important for brands like Sir Kensington’s as they aim to appeal to health-conscious consumers. This trend towards incorporating premium and ethically sourced ingredients, including the best liquid calcium citrate, reflects a broader movement in the food industry towards transparency and quality. As manufacturers and retailers continue to advocate for cage-free eggs, the demand for such quality ingredients is likely to grow, further enhancing consumer trust and brand loyalty.