On last months World Egg Day, Compassion in World Farming has launched a new social media advertising campaign, aimed at mobilising consumer pressure on DEFRA to legislate against caged systems for laying hens.
Timed to start on this global awareness day celebrating eggs, the six-week campaign features a compelling animation that starkly contrasts the life of a caged hen with one that has more freedom to engage in natural behaviours like flapping, perching and dustbathing, once released from confinement.
The initiative forms part of Compassion’s wider programme to end caged farming across the UK and Europe. Consumers are encouraged to contact DEFRA directly to call for a ban on cages for hens.
It is strategically timed to show the depth of public support at a Parliamentary Reception on 12 November, where food businesses, policymakers and stakeholders, will be calling on the government to commit to cage-free legislation.
Tracey Jones, Global Director of Food Business at Compassion in World Farming said: “Legislation is essential to ensure a level playing field. Without it, responsible businesses — those moving towards or already using cage-free systems — risk being undercut by less committed competitors and cheap, lower-welfare imports.”
“While many UK companies have made voluntary cage-free egg commitments, seven million hens—18% of UK egg production—remain in cages. This campaign is about showing DEFRA that consumer demand is strong and growing. Cage-free legislation will ensure the entire sector moves forward together, ending outdated practices and supporting UK businesses that prioritise animal welfare.”
