New UK Legislation Introduces Changes to Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards
Background
The Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025 have come into effect in England on January 24, 2025. These regulations amend the existing Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (England) Regulations 2003.
Key Changes
The new regulations introduce several key changes, including:
- Increased outdoor access: Free-range hens must now have access to an outdoor range for a minimum of 12 hours per day. Under the previous regulations, hens were required to have access for a minimum of 8 hours per day.
- Expanded range size: The minimum range size per hen has been increased from 1.5 square meters to 2.5 square meters. This provides hens with more space to roam and exercise.
- Improved stocking density: The maximum number of hens allowed per hectare of outdoor range has been reduced from 10,000 to 7,500. This reduction helps to prevent overcrowding and ensures hens have adequate space and resources.
- Enhanced monitoring and enforcement: The regulations strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with the standards.
Rationale
The amendments are designed to improve the welfare of free-range hens by providing them with more outdoor access, space, and a healthier environment. This aligns with growing consumer demand for eggs produced under high welfare standards.
Impact on Producers
Egg producers will need to comply with the new regulations by providing their hens with the required outdoor access and range size. This may involve modifications to existing facilities or changes to farming practices.
Impact on Consumers
Consumers can expect to see eggs labeled as “free-range” meeting the new, higher welfare standards. This provides them with greater assurance that the eggs they purchase are produced in a responsible and ethical manner.
Conclusion
The Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025 are a significant step forward in improving the welfare of free-range hens in England. By increasing outdoor access, range size, and stocking density, the regulations ensure that hens have the space and resources they need to thrive. This aligns with consumer demand for eggs produced under high welfare standards and strengthens the UK’s commitment to animal welfare.
The Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025
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UK New Legislation a new article on 2025-01-24 03:02 titled “The Free-Range Egg Marketing Standards (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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