ARAMARK to Source Eggs from Cage-Free Hens

Following up on its decision to eliminate pork from farms that use gestation crates for sows, a confinement system that keeps the animals caged so tight they cannot even turn, global professional services company ARAMARK announced it will now source its shell eggs within the United States from cage-free hens by the end of 2014. The announcement was made in conjunction with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

"We're committed to operating responsibly and addressing key issues throughout our supply chain and business," said Kathy Cacciola, ARAMARK's Senior Director of Environmental Sustainability. "This commitment to source shell eggs from cage-free hens, along with our recent commitment to eliminate pork from animals bred in gestation crates, helps move our industry toward an even stronger commitment to animal welfare."

ARAMARK buys approximately 30 million shell eggs annually in the United States. It already offers cage-free hens as an available option for clients, but it has devised an action plan with the HSUS to make cage-free eggs the norm by the end of 2014. The deadline for gestation-free pork is 2017.

The HSUS welcomed the company's decision. "We appreciate ARAMARK's commitment to improve animal welfare through sourcing practices within its supply chain," said Josh Balk, director of corporate policy for the Humane Society of the United States. "ARAMARK is further proving that creating humane-minded policies is good for animals, consumers, and business." The company featured in the Ethisphere Institute's list of the world's most ethical companies.

Cage-free eggs are produced by hens that are allowed to roam, although standards may vary. Demand for cage-free eggs has been increasing since the issue became a concern among ethical consumers and the general public. Battery chickens are kept in highly stressful conditions, as previous undercover investigations have revealed.

Image credit: Aramark