WHY CAGE-FREE EGGS ARE BAD

Caged hens are often portrayed as living in cramped, unsanitary conditions. However, this is not always the case. In fact, many cages provide hens with a clean and safe environment, with plenty of space to move around and lay their eggs.

Cage-free eggs may seem like the ethical choice, but they come with many hidden costs. Understanding the reality of cage-free egg production will help you make an informed decision about the eggs you buy.

1. CAGE-FREE DOESN'T MEAN CRUELTY-FREE

Cage-free hens are typically housed in large sheds, often with tens of thousands of other hens. These sheds are often poorly ventilated and dimly lit, which can lead to health problems for the hens. Additionally, hens in cage-free systems may be subjected to harmful practices like beak trimming and forced molting.

2. CAGE-FREE EGGS ARE NOT ALWAYS HEALTHIER

Cage-free hens are often fed a diet that is high in soy and corn, which can lead to higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids in their eggs. Omega-6 fatty acids are linked to inflammation, while omega-3 fatty acids are linked to heart health.

3. CAGE-FREE EGGS HAVE A HIGHER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Cage-free hens require more land and resources than caged hens. This means that cage-free egg production has a higher environmental impact, including more greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

4. CAGE-FREE EGGS ARE MORE EXPENSIVE

Cage-free eggs are typically more expensive than caged eggs. This is because cage-free systems require more labor and resources to maintain.

SUPPORTED CAGED HOUSING IS MORE ETHICAL AND HUMANE

Caged hens do not have to compete for food and water, and they are less likely to be injured or killed by other hens. In addition, caged hens are less likely to be exposed to disease.

CONCLUSION

Cage-free eggs are often promoted as the more ethical choice, but the reality is that they are not always better for the hens, the environment, or your wallet. Supported caged housing systems provide hens with a clean, safe, and comfortable environment to lay their eggs.

FAQs

1. Why are cage-free eggs more expensive?

Cage-free eggs are more expensive because cage-free systems require more labor and resources to maintain.

2. Are cage-free eggs healthier than caged eggs?

The nutritional value of cage-free and caged eggs is similar. However, cage-free hens may have higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which are linked to inflammation.

3. What is the environmental impact of cage-free egg production?

Cage-free egg production has a higher environmental impact than caged egg production. This is because cage-free hens require more land and resources.

4. Are cage-free eggs more ethical than caged eggs?

The ethical implications of cage-free and caged egg production are complex. While cage-free systems do provide hens with more space to move around, they also have their own challenges, such as increased risk of disease and injury.

5. What are the alternatives to cage-free and caged eggs?

There are a number of alternatives to cage-free and caged eggs, such as organic eggs, pasture-raised eggs, and free-range eggs.