Choose cage-free

You've given egg-laying hens a dozen reasons to celebrate - thank you!

Thank you for all you have done to help egg-laying hens in Canada! Because of your powerful voice, we will see a day when millions of hens will live free from battery cages. 

Choosing cage-free

Choose cage-free was an initiative by World Animal Protection to educate consumers about the real living conditions of hens in cages. Our goal was to empower everyone to commit to cage-free eggs and to work with farmers and businesses to adopt cage-free practices. With more access to information about the cage-free benefits for people and hens alike, consumers began making their choice very clear - and the industry responded.

Change is possible

And it's because of YOU! Consumer voices - your voice - helped spur change in an entire industry. In the last few years, major corporations have made commitments that will improve the lives of millions of hens. Nestlé, McDonald’s, Tim Hortons, A&W, Retail Council of Canada, which includes brands like Sobey's, Loblaw, & Walmart, Panera Bread, IKEA, and many other leading food brands have committed to source 100% cage-free eggs.

Millions of egg-laying hens in the North America will have space to stretch their wings; they will be able to exercise to keep their bones healthy and strong; they will be able to nest, forage, and dust bathe. Consumers like you are raising their voices for the humane treatment of the animals that produce the food we eat, and food businesses that care about transparency and building a trust with their customers are listening. Thank you for making a difference for so many suffering animals!

While the transition is underway, there are still dozens of ways to describe and label different types of eggs. We invite you to refer to our guide to decipher egg carton labels at your grocery store.

Want your favorite local restaurants to serve and use cage-free eggs in their menus? Invite them to join the flock! Download the Restaurant Suggestion Card to give to the manager the next time you visit them.

What you achieved for egg-laying hens!

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Shop better, eat better

Caring about the lives of farm animals is a choice we can all make. The conditions in which farm animals live and die can be improved by our purchase power.

Food produced through humane farming methods, including high welfare free range and organic production can also have health benefits for you, and is better for the environment.

You can help farm animals live a better life by making informed decisions at the grocery store. Click here to get our guide to learn how.

Reports and resources

• The Case Against Cages: Why Cage-Free Systems are Better for Laying Hens
• Buying eggs in Canada: egg label guide

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Hens in cages are more prone to stress and injury, and an increased risk of Salmonella. Hens need room to move around, spread their wings and lay their eggs in a nesting area.

For just a few cents more per egg, you can make a difference. Change is possible. It begins with a simple choice. Join the flock - choose cage-free. Better for hens and safer, more wholesome eggs for you.