Understanding how hens perceive and perform in cage-free environments is a step closer following the granting of US$1 million in funding to a U.S. research project.
While some cage-free laws have already come into effect, the egg industry is still questioning if producers will be able to meet the demand after the 2025 cage-free mandates are in place.
The U.S. egg industry is looking towards California and Massachusetts, who already have 100% cage-free laws implemented, for insight concerning state mandates.
What the egg industry does and doesn’t know about cage-free production was the focus of Dr. Janice Swanson speaking at the 2022 MPF Convention in Minneapolis.
Cal-Maine Foods Inc. recently announced US$82 million for capital projects to expand its U.S. cage-free production capacity in Delta, Utah, and Guthrie, Kentucky.
Travel restrictions have prevented cage-free egg producers from accessing coaching. However, a solution to this was presented by Erika Prewitt, Big Dutchman aviary system specialist at the Midwest Poultry Federation (MPF) Convention.
Attorney says it is relatively easy for Missouri residents to get matters on the ballot, and the state has enough egg production for such a law to be relevant