Egg Farmers of Australia (EFA) has welcomed the finalisation of the free-range labelling information standard.
“The new standard will bring simplicity and clarity to the term ‘free range’ and it will ensure that when consumers choose to buy free range, they will know exactly what they are getting,” Egg Farmers of Australia CEO John Dunn said.
“Under the new standard, every farmer must give their hens meaningful and regular access to an outdoor range. Any hen who wants to go outdoors will be able to do so, if she chooses to.
“People will also be able to see on egg cartons how many hens per hectare there are on the farm. Displaying stock-density information on egg cartons gives the choice to consumers.
“This is a win for consumers and a win for farmers.
“Consumers will now have confidence that when they buy free range, that’s what they’re getting. They’ll also have more choice with stocking density to be displayed on carton.
“After years of uncertainty, farmers will have the confidence to invest in new free-range farming facilities and technologies, such as new environmental controls in sheds to keep hens cool during summer and enrichments to range areas.
“EFA thanks all state consumer affairs ministers for their work and deliberation in agreeing to this standard. We acknowledge, in particular, the federal government for their leadership in tackling this issue.
“EFA supports consumers in their right to choose which type of eggs they want to buy – whether that be from free-range, barn or caged hens.
“We look forward to the new labelling standards being implemented.”