WATTAGNET: Nestlé commits globally to cage-free eggs

Nestlé on November 2 set a goal to source only eggs from cage-free hens for all its food products globally by 2025. This includes all shell eggs and egg products directly sourced as ingredients by Nestlé.

The latest policy builds on previous announcements made by the company. In December 2015, Nestlé announced that it would be phasing out eggs from caged hens in its U.S. supply chain by 2020. About one year later, Nestlé Canada revealed that it would be transitioning to cage-free eggs by 2025.

According to the new announcement, the transition for Nestlé operations in Europe would be completed, like in the United States, by the end of 2020.

For the rest of the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania it will happen by 2025, the company stated in a press release, with the move in Asia to be completed in the same transition period, as conditions allow.

In some parts of the world, such as in Europe, more than 40 percent of eggs used by Nestlé are already from cage-free sources.

“Switching to cage-free supplies worldwide requires time and investment. We will manage this in a sustainable and cost-effective way during the implementation period, ensuring consumers continue to access affordable high-quality foods throughout. We look forward to working with our suppliers, farmers, civil society and customers to drive progress,” Nestlé said in a statement.

The new policy impacts brands such as Häagen-Dazs, Dreyer’s and Edy’s ice creams, Nestlé Toll House cookie dough and Buitoni pasta. Eggs are also an important part of Lean Cuisine and Stouffer’s popular breakfast items.

The company’s decision to switch to sourcing only cage-free eggs comes about three weeks after Nestlé adopted a broiler welfare policy, which includes sourcing only broiler breeds that are approved by the Global Animal Partnership (GAP). It expects to have that policy fully implemented by 2024.

Comprehensive resource for cage-free eggs available

A new collection of exclusive articles, blogs and infographics on Cage-free Eggs and Consumer Trust in the Poultry Industry, written by trusted WATT Global Media editors and industry experts will equip egg producers and marketers with information to help them make critical business decisions. Purchase your copy.