Global Trends in Cage-Free and Organic Egg Production

The global egg industry has witnessed a significant shift towards cage-free and organic egg production in recent years. Consumers are increasingly concerned about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and the quality of the food they consume. This has led to a growing demand for eggs that are produced in a more ethical and sustainable manner.

Rise of Cage-Free Egg Production

One of the major trends in the egg industry is the transition from conventional cage systems to cage-free egg production. Cage-free systems allow hens to move freely, perch, nest, and engage in natural behaviors. This shift is driven by consumer demand for eggs from hens that are raised in more humane conditions.
According to data from the United Egg Producers, the percentage of cage-free eggs produced in the United States has been steadily increasing over the past decade. In 2019, cage-free eggs accounted for approximately 20% of total egg production in the country. This trend is expected to continue as more retailers and foodservice companies commit to sourcing cage-free eggs.
In Europe, several countries have already implemented legislation to ban conventional cages for egg-laying hens. The European Union Directive 1999/74/EC, for example, requires that all member states phase out conventional cages by 2027. This has led to a rapid increase in cage-free egg production across Europe.

Growth of Organic Egg Production

Organic egg production is another growing trend in the global egg industry. Organic eggs are produced from hens that are raised in free-range or pasture-based systems and fed organic feed that is free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms.
The demand for organic eggs has been driven by consumers who are seeking healthier and more environmentally sustainable food options. According to the Organic Trade Association, organic egg sales in the United States have been growing at an average annual rate of 10% over the past decade.
Major retailers and foodservice companies are also increasingly offering organic eggs in response to consumer demand. Companies like Whole Foods Market, Costco, and Walmart have expanded their organic egg offerings in recent years.

Financial Data and Industry Insights

The global cage-free and organic egg market is projected to continue growing in the coming years. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global cage-free egg market is expected to reach $9.8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 12.7%.
Similarly, the organic egg market is forecasted to grow at a significant pace. The Organic Trade Association estimates that organic egg sales in the United States alone will exceed $1 billion by 2025.
Major companies in the cage-free and organic egg industry include companies like Vital Farms, Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs, Happy Egg Co, and Organic Valley. These companies have seen strong growth in recent years as consumer demand for ethical and sustainable food products continues to rise.
In conclusion, the global egg industry is experiencing a shift towards cage-free and organic egg production driven by consumer demand for more ethical and sustainable food options. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with significant growth projected in both the cage-free and organic egg markets. Major companies in the industry are positioning themselves to capitalize on this trend and meet the growing demand for cage-free and organic eggs.