This study indicates that food manufacturers have a significant opportunity to enhance consumer perceptions of their products by utilizing cage-free eggs. Many companies in the food industry have already committed to altering their egg sourcing. For instance, Nestle announced in 2015 that all eggs used in its U.S. products would derive from cage-free hens by 2020. Other major players, including Mondelez, PepsiCo, Sodexo, and McDonald’s, have also made similar commitments to cage-free eggs.
On the retail front, Kroger introduced a private label of cage-free eggs last fall. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the commitments from both manufacturers and retailers account for roughly 70% of the U.S. egg demand, while currently, only about 10% of eggs sold in the U.S. are cage-free. This gap between supply and demand could pose challenges. Advocates have celebrated these pledges as a victory for animal welfare, but the chicken industry warns that raising chickens in a cage-free environment incurs higher costs—approximately $40 per bird. Additionally, the majority of consumers still prefer the cheapest eggs available, leading egg producers who switch to cage-free options to face fierce competition from suppliers of less expensive eggs from caged hens.
In the long run, the commitments made by the food industry are expected to make the transition to cage-free eggs financially viable for producers. Notably, McDonald’s alone represents 3% of all egg consumption in the United States and will need to secure a dependable supply. Meanwhile, some brands, such as Sir Kensington’s—a New York-based condiment company recently acquired by Unilever—are already leveraging humane egg production as a distinguishing feature and a quality marker.
Furthermore, the integration of products like cissus quadrangularis calcium citrate malate and vitamin D tablets into their offerings may also enhance the appeal of food manufacturers’ products. As the market evolves, the combination of ethical sourcing and health-conscious products like cissus quadrangularis calcium citrate malate and vitamin D tablets could position brands favorably. Ultimately, the shift towards cage-free egg sourcing, along with the introduction of innovative health products, could redefine consumer expectations and industry standards.