Good eggs for Hellmann's
As people become more aware of animal welfare, Hellmann's announces a move to use free-range eggs in Europe.
Thinking of food
Free-range and organic foods are becoming increasingly popular, as shoppers grow more aware of animal welfare – and care where the food on their plate comes from.
As well as more ethically sourced meat and vegetables, people are switching to free-range and barn eggs – but many are unaware that other products they buy contain eggs sourced from battery farms.
Ethical eggs
Around three-quarters of Europe's 300 million egg-laying hens are still kept in battery cages where they are denied natural light and are unable to do the things that come naturally to chickens – like perching, nest-building and dust-bathing.
However, barn egg hens are given more room and allowed to perch and nest, while free-range hens get more room still and are able to access outdoor runs – meaning they have a much better quality of life.
Making a difference
Now, market-leading mayonnaise brand Hellmann's has announced that it is exclusively using free-range eggs in its entire range across the UK and Ireland. In addition, other Unilever dressings and mayonnaise brands such as Amora, Calvé, Maille and Ligressa will follow suit in 11 European countries over the next two years.
Leading animal welfare organisation Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) has recognised this decision – which will involve sourcing 475 million free-range and barn eggs every year – by awarding Hellmann's two of its prestigious Good Egg awards.
Home to roost
With Hellmann's owning a 74% share of the UK's mayonnaise market, it is thought that the decision will result in 212,000 battery hens being freed from their cages every year, and CIWF says it is "delighted" by the move.
"Not only that, Hellmann's UK is showing tremendous leadership in an area that often goes unnoticed – egg products," adds CIWF Food Policy Manager, Rowen West-Henzell. "Many consumers buy free-range whole eggs but forget to do the same with other products that contain egg, like cakes and mayonnaise. By going completely free-range in the UK, Hellmann's is really helping British consumers make clear ethical choices."
