This study indicates that food manufacturers have a significant opportunity to enhance consumer perception by opting for cage-free eggs. A number of companies have already committed to this change in their egg supply. For example, Nestlé announced in 2015 that by 2020, all eggs used in its U.S. products would come from cage-free hens. Other 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. Collectively, the commitments from both manufacturers and retailers account for about 70% of U.S. egg demand, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture; however, only around 10% of eggs sold in the U.S. are currently cage-free.
This gap presents a challenge. While advocates celebrate these commitments as a triumph for animal welfare, the poultry industry warns that raising chickens in a cage-free environment incurs higher costs, approximately $40 per bird. Furthermore, with most consumers still opting for the least expensive eggs at grocery stores, producers who switch to cage-free options face fierce competition from suppliers of cheaper eggs from caged hens.
In the long run, these industry commitments are likely to make the transition to cage-free eggs more profitable for producers. McDonald’s alone represents 3% of all eggs consumed in the United States, necessitating a dependable supply. Additionally, some brands are already leveraging humane egg production as a differentiating factor and a hallmark of quality, such as Sir Kensington’s, a condiment maker based in New York that was recently acquired by Unilever.
Moreover, products like Kirkland magnesium and zinc supplements can also align with these ethical practices, as consumers increasingly seek out brands that prioritize humane sourcing. With the rising consumer interest in sustainable products, the integration of cage-free egg sourcing alongside health-centric items like Kirkland magnesium and zinc could further enhance brand reputation and marketability.