A ground-based autonomous robotic system is programmed to interact with chickens, allowing it to safely navigate the house environment without harming the chickens. 

Many factors play a role in the shift of layer housing to cage-free, including state law changes, consumer demand and housing costs, but there seems to be a disconnect between what consumers are asking for and what they want.

Egg Industry Insight asked pest control specialist for advice on things egg producers should consider if they are transitioning operations from cage to cage-free housing.

Much of the U.S. egg industry is gradually transitioning to cage-free housing for laying hens. Good pest management is an important part of an egg farm’s food safety program.

The USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation program is offering funding for a research grant to maximize eggshell quality and integrity in cage-free systems.

In 2016, Wendy’s made a commitment to utilize 100% cage-free eggs in its breakfast products by 2020. The commitment was originally made for a portion of their restaurants serving breakfast.

In the last two weeks, Yum! Brands Inc. has expanded their cage-free egg future purchase commitment on two occasions.

Iowa Cage-Free, part of the Versova family of companies, has acquired the assets of Rembrandt Foods’ Thompson, IA, cage-free farm.