Are Cage-Free or Backyard Eggs Really Ethical?
Discover why every egg—organic, free-range, or backyard—causes suffering, and what you can do instead.
What if every egg—even the ones labeled cage-free, organic, free-range, or collected from a neighbor’s backyard—carried hidden suffering? For decades, the egg industry has used comforting labels to reassure us we can eat eggs without guilt. But the reality is unavoidable: there is no humane or ethical way to consume eggs.
Are Cage-Free or Free-Range Eggs Humane?
Cage-free and free-range labels focus on appearances rather than ethics. A hen might not live in a tiny cage, but her body is still being used and controlled. Whether she lays inside a wire enclosure or on open grass, the outcome is the same: when she stops producing enough eggs, she is killed. The problem isn’t just the housing—it’s the system itself.
Why Were Chickens Bred This Way?
Egg consumption is only possible because chickens have been selectively bred to serve human demand. Modern hens lay about 300 eggs per year, compared to just 10–15 annually from their wild ancestors. This unnatural overproduction pushes their reproductive systems into constant overdrive, placing enormous strain on their bodies.
What Happens to Hens’ Bodies?
Through selective breeding, hens have been forced into chronic hyper-ovulation, meaning their bodies are trapped in a cycle of laying and can no longer stop producing eggs. The results are painful and often deadly. Hens suffer from:
Egg yolk peritonitis
Reproductive cancers
Osteoporosis and brittle bones
Uterine prolapse
These are not rare issues, but predictable outcomes of forcing a body to overproduce. Every egg causes invisible damage, whether or not the label says “cage-free.”
What About Roosters?
For every hen who lays eggs, there is almost always a brother who never survives. Male chicks are considered useless to the egg industry because they cannot lay. As a result, billions are killed every year, often within hours of hatching. Roosters not only face mass killing as chicks, but those who survive also suffer from the same distorted breeding that damages hens. Overloaded sex hormones take a toll on their bodies, leaving them vulnerable to illness and shortening their lives.
Are Backyard Eggs Ethical?
Many people argue that backyard eggs are different. But even small flocks trace back to the same breeding systems. Keeping or consuming those eggs reinforces the idea that hens exist for our use. As long as eggs remain a normal part of diets, chickens will continue to be bred, exploited, and discarded.
What Can We Do Instead?
If you live with hens, the most compassionate approach is to protect their health by reducing or preventing egg-laying. When eggs are laid, they should be fed back to the hens to restore lost nutrients. Any extras can be composted or returned to the earth and not placed back into human consumption.
Beyond your own hens, the best way to help is to:
Support farmed animal sanctuaries
Choose vegan egg alternatives
Share the truth about the egg industry with others
The Truth: There Is No Ethical Egg
Labels cannot cover up the reality. Cage-free, free-range, organic, or backyard. Every system still rests on the exploitation of hens and the destruction of roosters. Every egg comes at the cost of a life cut short.
The most ethical choice is to stop consuming eggs altogether. By rejecting them, we break the cycle of suffering and create a future where hens are valued for who they are, not what they produce.
Please leave eggs off your plate. Choose compassion instead.
Further Reading and Resources
How to Ditch Eggs: Guide to Egg-free Living
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
Why Did My Hen Stop Laying Eggs?
Modern backyard hens stop laying not just due to age or environment, but because decades of selective breeding push their bodies far beyond their natural limits, causing pain and health issues.
Summary:
Hens naturally stop laying due to age (production peaks in first 2–3 years), seasonal changes (need 14+ hours of daylight), stress from environmental changes, molting, or health issues. However, these natural pauses reveal a deeper concern: modern hens are bred to produce 250–300 eggs annually, versus their wild ancestors' 10–20 eggs per year. This extreme overproduction causes severe health problems including bone fractures (affecting up to 85% of laying hens), reproductive tract disorders like egg binding and ovarian cancer, liver problems, and chronic exhaustion. Understanding why hens stop laying naturally helps us question whether we should expect constant production at all, given the documented physical toll on their bodies.
What's Really Happening When Hens Stop Laying
You noticed fewer eggs in the nest box and came looking for solutions. Maybe you're wondering about lighting, supplements, or feeding schedules. But before diving into ways to restart production, it's worth understanding what constant egg-laying actually does to a hen's body.
Wild red junglefowl—the ancestors of all domestic chickens—naturally lay just 10–20 eggs per year, enough to raise one or two broods and ensure their species' survival. Today's backyard hens have been selectively bred to produce 250–300 eggs annually, a biological impossibility that nature never intended.
This dramatic difference isn't just impressive, but devastating to their health.
The Natural Reasons Hens Stop Laying
Several factors naturally influence egg production, and understanding these can help you see your hen's behavior differently:
Age and Life Cycle: Hens typically peak in their first two years, then gradually decline. By age three or four, many significantly reduce laying. This isn't a malfunction, but a natural slowdown their bodies desperately need.
Seasonal Changes: Hens require approximately 14 hours of daylight to maintain steady production. As days shorten in fall and winter, their bodies naturally pause egg-laying to conserve energy for survival.
Stress and Environment: Predator scares, flock changes, loud noises, or even moving the coop can halt laying. This stress response protects hens by redirecting energy from reproduction to immediate survival needs.
Molting and Brooding: When hens shed and regrow feathers or enter brooding behavior, they stop laying completely. These natural processes can last weeks or months—and that's exactly as it should be.
Health and Nutrition: Illness, parasites, or nutritional deficiencies affect laying, but these issues often stem from the enormous metabolic demands of constant egg production.
The Hidden Health Crisis in Modern Hens
Here's what the poultry industry doesn't advertise: hyper-productive laying causes severe, often painful health problems that affect even the happiest backyard hens.
Bone Fractures and Osteoporosis: Scientific studies reveal that up to 85% of laying hens suffer broken bones due to calcium depletion. Their bodies prioritize eggshell formation over bone strength, leading to fractures that can occur from simple movements like flapping wings or being picked up.
Reproductive Tract Disorders: The unnatural rate of egg formation creates numerous serious conditions:
Egg binding: Eggs become stuck in the oviduct, causing excruciating pain and often death without intervention*
Internal laying: Eggs form inside the body cavity instead of the reproductive tract, leading to infection and internal injuries*
Oviduct prolapse: The reproductive tract can actually turn inside out from the strain**
Reproductive cancers: Chronic ovulation dramatically increases rates of ovarian and oviduct tumors***
Liver Problems: The metabolic demands of forming an egg every 24–26 hours can cause liver rupture and fatty liver syndrome.****
Chronic Exhaustion: Imagine your body producing something the size of a chicken egg every single day. The energy requirements are enormous, leaving hens perpetually depleted.*
These aren't rare complications—they're predictable consequences of breeding birds to produce far beyond their biological limits.
Even “Happy” Hens Can't Escape the System
You might think your backyard setup is different from commercial operations, and in many ways, it probably is. Your hens likely have more space, better care, and genuine affection. But they can't escape the fundamental problem: their genetics.
Every laying hen, whether from a local farm store or specialty hatchery, comes from breeding programs designed to maximize egg production.
The male chicks from these breeding lines are killed shortly after hatching because they don't lay eggs. This happens even for birds destined for the most caring backyard coops.
When your hens' productivity declines, the industry expectation is disposal. Commercial operations routinely cull hens at 18–24 months when their laying peaks pass, regardless of their overall health or remaining lifespan.
Rethinking What We Ask of Our Hens
Instead of wondering why your hen stopped laying, consider these questions:
Why do we expect a bird to produce an egg nearly every day of her adult life?
Would we demand this level of biological output from any other animal we claimed to care about?
Is a hen's value really measured only in the eggs she produces?
What if we saw a decrease in laying not as a problem to solve, but as a natural need for rest?
The modern relationship with laying hens reflects a fundamental disconnect from natural biology. We've normalized an extreme level of exploitation while telling ourselves it's different because we provide good care.
A Different Way Forward
True care for hens means questioning why we demand so many eggs in the first place. It means valuing hens for their complex social behaviors, their individual personalities, and their capacity for contentment and not their reproductive output.
If you genuinely care about your hen's wellbeing, the kindest thing you can do is let her rest when her body signals it needs to. Don't add artificial lighting to extend her laying season. Don't supplement her diet to force more production. Let her experience the natural rhythms her wild ancestors knew.
And perhaps most importantly, consider whether the eggs are worth the cost to her body at all.
The Most Compassionate Choice
Every egg represents not just a potential meal, but a biological demand we've placed on a hen's body. One that causes measurable harm throughout her life. The most radical act of care isn't providing better housing or organic feed, though these matter. It's questioning whether we need the eggs at all.
Your hen's worth isn't measured in cartons. It's found in the dust bath she takes in warm dirt, the way she communicates with her flock, her cautious curiosity about new things, and her right to grow old without constant demands on her reproductive system.
When we stop seeing hens as egg-production units and start seeing them as individuals deserving of rest and respect, we open the door to a more honest relationship with these remarkable birds.
If you truly want to help hens, the most powerful thing you can do is stop eating eggs entirely. Every egg not consumed is a demand not placed on a hen's body, and a step toward seeing these animals as more than what they produce for us.
Further Reading and Resources
How to Ditch Eggs: Guide to Egg-free Living
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
The "No-Kill" Egg Illusion: What In-Ovo Sexing Really Means for Chickens
The egg industry's latest "no-kill" marketing promises sound compassionate, but the reality is far different.
We could save billions of lives each year, but instead, society is focusing on how to kill them in a kinder way.
In our previous post on in-ovo sexing, we discussed these emerging technologies and their role within the egg production apparatus, demonstrating how they perpetuate rather than eliminate the suffering inherent to this industry.
Sentient's recent exposé on ‘Kipster’'s calculated entry into the US market, complete with their carefully marketed pledge to raise male chicks for meat, compels us to revisit this critical issue. What we're witnessing is nothing short of a co-optation of our movement's language and moral urgency. This post will expose what actually happens to male chicks under these new technologies and why every welfare reform ultimately fails to liberate animals from commodification.
From Exposing Cruelty to Comforting Labels: How the Industry Reframes the Debate
Few cruelties in the egg industry are as publicized as the mass culling of male chicks.
For years, activists have shared shocking footage of newborn chicks falling into grinders or suffocating in sacks, forcing the public to confront the hidden violence behind every carton of eggs.
Now, tech companies and egg producers are racing to market in-ovo sexing technologies that promise to “spare” male chicks by destroying them before they hatch.
While activists use the horror of chick culling to urge people to ditch eggs, these companies seize the moment to offer comforting labels and welfare promises, letting consumers believe their conscience can rest easy.
The egg industry is quick to adopt buzzwords: “no-kill eggs,” “cull-free,” “humane eggs.” Certification programs like ‘Hatch Check’ in the US reinforce these claims, but the reality is far less comforting.
This marketing works because most consumers don't know the details. While 82% of people say they'd prefer “no-kill” eggs, only 11% know male chick culling is standard practice. The industry relies on this gap, using emotional language to soothe consumer guilt while the fundamental ethical problems remain untouched.
Even ‘Kipster’, a company often cited for its commitment to raising male chicks, recently told Sentient that in-ovo sexing is only a temporary solution in the U.S., openly acknowledging that destroying male eggs is a shortcoming compared to their desired goal of raising males for food.
This shift isn't about ending cruelty. It's about moving it out of sight and selling the illusion of cruelty-free.
What Really Happens to Male Chicks: The “Kinder” Killing
In-ovo sexing determines the sex of chicken embryos inside fertilized eggs before hatching, allowing hatcheries to remove male embryos between days 4 and 13 of incubation. The technology uses various methods like optical scanning, genetic analysis, or experimental sound wave treatments. This timeline is significant, as scientific consensus suggests chicks begin to develop pain perception around day 13, which companies use to justify early destruction as more “humane.”
Here's what actually happens to those male embryos the industry claims to “spare”:
Crushed and processed as eggs: The overwhelming majority of male eggs identified by in-ovo sexing are destroyed before hatching and processed into animal feed, pet food, or protein powder.
‘Respeggt’ (Germany/Europe/US) uses the Seleggt Circuit to extract fluid from eggs on day 9, identifies male embryos, and removes them for processing into animal feed.
‘In Ovo’ (Netherlands) uses their “Ella” system to sample egg fluid on day 9, with male eggs also processed for feed.
‘CHEGGY’ (Germany/US) uses hyperspectral imaging for brown eggs, with male embryos removed and processed for animal feed.
‘Orbem’ (Germany) employs AI and MRI to identify sex by day 12; male eggs are processed before hatching.
Raised for meat (rare): Some companies, like ‘Kipster’ (Netherlands/US), have trialed raising male chicks for meat. However, this is rare and not scalable due to high costs, poor feed efficiency, and lack of market demand for rooster meat. Even ‘Kipster’ has now switched to in-ovo sexing in the US, citing infrastructure and economic barriers.
Turned into hens (experimental): ‘SOOS Technology’ (Israel/US) is piloting a method to convert genetic males into egg-laying hens using sound waves. This is still experimental and not commercially widespread.
No matter the method, the reality is clear: male chicks are not “spared.” They are simply eliminated earlier, out of sight, and often repurposed for economic gain. The industry's new language of “no-kill” and “humane” eggs is a marketing strategy, not a moral revolution.
Why Welfare Reforms Won't End Animal Suffering
In-ovo sexing exemplifies how welfare reforms serve industry interests rather than genuine animal protection. Despite the new marketing and technological advances, the ethical and economic realities remain unchanged.
Systematic destruction persists. Whether at day 1 or day 13, male lives are eliminated for economic efficiency. The timing changes, but the commodification of life continues unabated.
Female suffering persists. Hens on commercial egg farms endure painful debeaking, severe confinement, and slaughter when productivity declines. These females see no benefit from “no-kill” marketing. Their lives remain just as confined, just as painful, just as short.
Suffering of the parent flocks persists. These breeding birds, the unseen origin of every egg, live stressful and restricted lives. Hens and roosters bred specifically for fertile egg production endure chronic confinement, minimal freedom, and relentless reproductive demands. Their conditions remain unaffected by the shift to in-ovo sexing.
Companies adopt in-ovo sexing for profit, not compassion. It reduces costs, increases efficiency, and creates new revenue streams from processed male eggs. In-ovo sexing adds less than 1 cent per egg to production costs but offers significant savings in labor, feed, and space.
This pattern repeats across all animal industries: cage-free eggs, grass-fed beef, humane slaughter.
Each “improvement” allows consumers to continue participating in animal exploitation with reduced guilt, providing the illusion of progress while maintaining the profitable status quo.
The language changes, but the fundamental relationship remains the same: animals exist for human profit.
The Real Solution
But you have the power to step outside this system entirely. Every time you choose compassion over convenience, you're taking a stand. If you truly care about animal well-being, please look beyond the labels and marketing promises.
The real solution to ending the suffering of hens isn't a new technology or a comforting promise. It's refusing to participate in a system built on animal exploitation. It's recognizing that no matter how we dress it up, using animals for food means treating them as commodities rather than the individuals they are.
You don't need to wait for the industry to change. You can change right now, with your next meal, your next shopping trip, your next choice. The animals are counting on us to see through the illusion and choose a different path entirely.
Additional Information
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What is in-ovo sexing?
In-ovo sexing is a technology that determines the sex of a chicken embryo inside a fertilized egg before hatching, allowing hatcheries to remove male embryos before they hatch into chicks.
What happens to the male embryos?
They are removed from incubation between days 4 and 13 and destroyed, then typically processed into animal feed or protein powder. Some companies have trialed raising these males for meat or converting them into egg-laying hens, but these approaches are rare or experimental.
Are “no-kill” or “cull-free” eggs cruelty-free?
No. These labels only mean no chicks are killed after hatching. Male embryos are still destroyed, just earlier. The ongoing suffering of hens and broader exploitation continue unchanged.
Is in-ovo sexing legally required?
Only a few countries (Germany, France, and soon Italy) have banned male chick culling by law, pushing producers toward in-ovo sexing. Elsewhere, adoption is voluntary or market-driven.
Is this practice common worldwide?
Europe leads globally, with over 28% adoption. North America is just beginning to adopt commercially, and most of the world still relies on traditional chick culling.
Does in-ovo sexing increase the price of eggs?
Slightly. The additional cost to consumers is minimal—typically less than 1 cent per egg—but producers see economic benefits through efficiency gains.
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Liquid-Based Analysis Technologies
Respeggt (Seleggt Circuit) represents the most established commercial technology, operational since 2018. Using DNA analysis of allantoic fluid extracted on day 9 of incubation, male eggs are removed and processed into animal feed or protein powder. The technology now operates across multiple European countries and entered the US market in 2024 through partnerships with Kipster and other producers.
In Ovo’s Ella System employs a similar liquid sampling approach but uses proprietary biomarkers rather than DNA analysis. Operating since 2020, male eggs identified by this system are processed into animal feed. The technology processes 4,800 eggs per hour with over 98% accuracy.
PLANTegg utilizes PCR-based DNA analysis from allantoic fluid samples. Male eggs are processed into “high-quality feed” according to company specifications. The technology is owned by HatchTech Group and has been operational in Europe since 2020.
Imaging-Based Technologies
Orbem’s Genus Focus employs MRI and AI technology to detect sex differences in embryonic development on day 12 of incubation. Male eggs are processed into animal feed. The system can process up to 24,000 eggs per hour with modular design allowing scalability.
Agri Advanced Technologies’ CHEGGY uses hyperspectral imaging to identify sex based on feather color differences, working exclusively with brown layer breeds. Male eggs are processed into animal feed. The technology entered the US market in December 2024 through NestFresh, with eggs from in-ovo sexed hens reaching consumers in mid-2025.
MatrixSpec’s HyperEye represents the earliest sexing technology, capable of determination on day 4 of incubation. Currently in commercial validation in Canada, male eggs would be processed into animal feed. The system claims processing speeds of 30,000+ eggs per hour.
Emerging and Alternative Technologies
Sensit Ventures’ VOC Technology uses volatile organic compound detection to “sniff” sex-specific chemicals emitted through eggshells. Still in early-stage development, male eggs would be processed into animal feed if commercialized.
Omegga’s Spectroscopic Imaging develops non-invasive optical methods for sex detection, currently in pilot testing in Germany. Male eggs would be processed into animal feed.
SOOS Technology presents a unique approach using sound waves to convert genetically male embryos into phenotypically female chickens. Rather than destroying male embryos, this technology aims to create egg-laying birds from genetic males. Currently in limited commercial trials in the US and Israel.
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Europe: The Pioneer Market
Europe leads global adoption with 20-28% market penetration as of 2024. Legal bans on male chick culling in Germany (2022), France (2023), and Italy (2026) have driven rapid adoption. Over 110 million of the EU’s 393 million laying hens were hatched using in-ovo sexing technology by April 2025.
The annual cost of in-ovo sexing in France alone ranges between €40-50 million, creating disputes between producers and retailers over cost-sharing. Despite these challenges, technological improvements have reduced costs from €4.00 per male bird in 2020 to €3.10 in 2024.
North America: Early Commercial Deployment
The United States saw its first commercial in-ovo sexed chicks in December 2024, with NestFresh becoming the first US producer to market such eggs. Kipster, the second US adopter, began using Respeggt technology in 2025, marking a significant shift from their previous commitment to raising male chicks.
The United Egg Producers launched the “Hatch Check” certification program in 2025, providing standards for in-ovo sexing verification. This represents industry-led adoption rather than regulatory mandates, with major retailers like Walmart including in-ovo sexing in supplier guidelines.
Canada is developing its own technology through the HyperEye system, with commercial validation underway and planned deployment in 2025.
Other Markets
Switzerland achieved industry-wide adoption through voluntary agreements, with both major hatcheries implementing in-ovo sexing for 100% of production by 2025. Norway reached 22% market penetration through voluntary adoption. Australia and the UK remain in early pilot stages, with limited commercial deployment.
Further Reading
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
Debunking the Most Common Egg Industry Myths – Part 2
In Part 2 of our myth-busting series, we uncover how the egg industry manipulates hens’ biology, environments, and even marketing to hide the suffering behind every egg.
Welcome to Part 2 of our myth-busting series on the egg industry.
In Part 1, we tackled common misconceptions about hens and eggs. Now we’re exploring myths about hen biology, manipulated living conditions, and misleading marketing claims, such as “hens naturally lay eggs daily,” or “dark yolks indicate better welfare.”
If you've ever wondered how “natural” eggs really are, keep reading.
5. “Only happy hens lay eggs.”
This common belief sounds comforting, but it’s misleading.
Laying eggs is a biological function, not a reliable indicator of wellbeing. A hen may continue to lay even when her body is under immense stress. This is because hens have been bred to be highly productive, and their physiology allows them to keep laying despite poor conditions.
In commercial farms, hens face constant stress—from overcrowded barns, rough handling, and noise to sudden changes in temperature, light, or feed. These stressors can cause hormonal spikes or chronic health issues like weakened bones and suppressed immune function. Yet many hens keep laying through it all due to a process called allostasis: their bodies adapt to stress to maintain egg production—even when it takes a toll.
Egg output doesn’t mean a hen is thriving. In fact, hens in less stressful backyard environments might lay fewer eggs but live much longer and healthier lives. Meanwhile, commercial hens might keep laying while silently suffering from parasites, poor nutrition, or reproductive exhaustion.
The bottom line: consistent egg laying is not a sign of happiness or good health—it’s often a sign of survival in a system that prioritizes output over wellbeing.
6. “Hens lay an egg every day—it’s the most natural food to eat”
The egg industry likes to suggest that daily egg-laying is simply what hens do. It sounds natural, even effortless. But this image is far from the truth.
Today’s hens are the result of decades of intense selective breeding. While their wild ancestors laid around 12 eggs per year, modern hens have been engineered to produce between 250 and 330 eggs annually. In some cases, industry breeding targets push for as many as 500 eggs per hen in a single laying cycle.
This level of output is anything but natural. It puts enormous strain on the hen’s body and leads to serious health issues, including osteoporosis, skeletal depletion, and reproductive tract problems. After just 72 to 100 weeks of this exhausting cycle, the hens are considered no longer profitable and are sent to slaughter.
The truth is, hens do not lay eggs every day because it is natural. They do it because they have been genetically manipulated to meet the demands of a system that sees them as egg-producing machines.
What we call “natural” is actually the result of extreme intervention in their biology.
👉 Learn more.
7. “Hens need sunlight to lay eggs—egg farms are bright places.”
The industry loves to show sun‑drenched barns, giving the impression that hens bask in natural daylight. In reality, sunlight is not required. What matters is control.
Hens are photoperiod‑sensitive birds; their bodies start an egg‑laying cycle when they receive roughly 14 to 16 hours of light. Farmers replicate spring and summer by flipping on low‑watt bulbs and setting them on a timer. No sun needed—just electricity.
Most barns run at 10 to 20 lux, about as bright as a dim hallway closet. A sunny day outside reaches over 80 000 lux. In these gloomy sheds, dawn and dusk are faked, and red or orange lights are sometimes added to stimulate reproductive hormones. The goal is simple: more eggs, more quickly, with little regard for the toll on the hens’ bodies.
This artificial schedule keeps hens producing nonstop while masking the harsh, cramped reality inside the barn. Bright marketing photos do not match the dim truth.
8. “A dark yolk means a hen is happy and healthy.”
Egg cartons often feature deep, vibrant yolks to suggest freshness, better taste, and healthier hens. This appealing imagery, however, is purely marketing.
Egg yolk color mainly depends on diet—specifically, carotenoids from plants like corn, carrots, or alfalfa. In nature, these pigments produce a range of yolk shades from pale yellow to deep orange. But egg producers commonly add natural feed additives to achieve consistently dark yolks for consumer appeal, regardless of actual hen wellbeing or egg quality.
In fact, yolk color does not reliably indicate better nutrition, superior taste, or humane living conditions. Even hens confined in cages can produce eggs with deep-colored yolks if their diets include certain pigments.
Ultimately, yolk color is a manipulated illusion, created by producers to mask cruel practices and boost consumer appeal—not evidence of happy or healthy hens.
The egg industry carefully shapes the way we see hens, eggs, and farming practices. From controlling light exposure to force egg production, to adding pigments to feed to influence yolk color, much of what we are told is a marketing illusion.
These systems are not designed to support animal wellbeing. They are designed to maximize profit, often at the cost of the hen’s health and life.
Once we begin to question what we’ve been taught, the truth becomes hard to ignore. Hens are not machines, and eggs are not a harmless food. They are the product of a system built on control, manipulation, and suffering.
If we want a kinder world, it starts by leaving eggs off our plates.
Sources & Further Reading
Debunking the Most Common Egg Industry Myths – Part 1
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
Debunking the Most Common Egg Industry Myths – Part 1
Think eggs are harmless? These 4 myths hide the brutal truth about the egg industry.
As advocates for chickens in the egg industry, we’ve heard it all. Over and over again, the same “gotcha” comments pop up beneath our posts—seemingly simple statements that attempt to justify eating eggs. But when we dig a little deeper, these claims start to unravel.
In this two-part series, we’re breaking down the most common myths we encounter. Here’s Part 1.
1. “No chickens are killed for eggs.”
This is one of the most common misconceptions we encounter—and one of the most misleading.
The idea that eggs are a harmless byproduct rests on the belief that no lives are taken in the process. But the egg industry depends on killing to function. Both hens and male chicks are routinely killed as part of standard egg production practices.
Every egg-laying hen is eventually slaughtered when her production slows—usually before she even turns two years old. Her short life is spent in confinement, her body pushed to produce egg after egg at a rate far beyond what nature ever intended. This extreme overproduction leads to serious health issues, including reproductive disorders, brittle bones, and exhaustion.
But the killing starts even earlier.
Because male chicks don’t lay eggs and aren’t profitable for meat, they’re considered useless by the industry. Just hours after hatching, these baby birds are typically killed—ground up alive, gassed, or suffocated in trash bags. Globally, this adds up to about 6 billion male chicks killed every single year. Their lives are discarded before they’ve even begun.
If every hen came from a hatchery, so did her brother—and he didn’t make it past his first day.
So yes, chickens are absolutely killed for eggs. Not just eventually. From the very beginning.
2. “Male chicks aren’t killed—they’re raised for pet food.”
This claim attempts to gloss over one of the egg industry's most brutal truths: the systematic culling of male chicks.
Because male chicks don’t lay eggs and aren’t bred to grow quickly enough for meat production, they are considered worthless to the industry. Unlike other animal-based food sectors, egg production depends on hatching fertilized eggs without knowing the chick’s sex in advance. As a result, chicks must be born first, then sorted by sex—an operation that leads to the immediate killing of males.
Within hours of hatching, male chicks are discarded—often gassed or ground alive. Their deaths are not a rare exception, but a standard industry practice carried out for the sake of efficiency and profit. Weak, injured, or deformed chicks—regardless of sex—are also culled in this process.
Some argue that these chicks are used for pet food, but even if that’s occasionally the case, it doesn’t make the practice ethically acceptable. Raising them for a few more weeks only prolongs their suffering before an inevitable, premature death. Every path leads to slaughter.
Even emerging technologies like in-ovo sexing—marketed as a compassionate alternative—do not address the suffering of the hens themselves or the parent birds used to produce fertilized eggs. The grim reality remains: male chicks are treated as disposable by-products of an industry built on reproductive control and exploitation.
👉 Learn more.
3. “Hens lay eggs anyway—it would be wasteful not to eat them.”
At first glance, this argument may seem practical. But it completely overlooks the reality of how hens come to be in egg production in the first place.
Modern egg-laying hens are not backyard wanderers casually leaving eggs behind. They are bred, purchased, and kept for one reason: to produce eggs—hundreds of them per year. This isn’t a natural occurrence; it’s the result of decades of selective breeding and manipulation. Unlike wild birds who lay just a handful of eggs to raise chicks, today’s hens have been genetically engineered to hyperovulate almost daily, far beyond what nature ever intended.
This unnatural burden takes a serious toll on their bodies. Chronic reproductive strain leads to health problems like inflammation, hunger, pain, and exhaustion. And when their production slows—typically before they even turn two—they’re slaughtered.
Using the argument “they lay them anyway” ignores that these hens are bred to suffer. Their existence has been engineered for profit, not for life.
4. “I only buy locally farmed, free-range eggs—these hens have a good life.”
This comforting belief—that buying “free-range,” “organic,” or “local” eggs means supporting happy, well-cared-for hens—is widespread, but it doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
Egg labels vary greatly by country and often mislead consumers. In Canada and the United States, for example, “free-range” simply means the hens have some outdoor access. How much? That’s usually unspecified. In the UK and Australia, the standards are slightly more stringent, but still allow wide variation. Meanwhile, “organic” eggs might come from hens fed pesticide-free grain and granted limited outdoor time, but even these labels don’t guarantee humane or natural conditions.
What’s more, “local” farms often mirror the same industrial practices used by large-scale producers. Small scale doesn’t always mean kind. These hens are still products of the same hatcheries where male chicks are killed at birth, and the females are bred for unnatural levels of egg production. Their high output causes painful health issues like osteoporosis and reproductive tract problems, and once their egg production slows, they are slaughtered—often before they turn two.
Labels may offer the illusion of care and transparency, but they do little to alter the deeper problem: the systemic exploitation of hens for profit.
The egg industry is built on decades of carefully maintained myths—claims that eggs are harmless, natural, or humane. But the facts tell a different story. From the systematic killing of male chicks and the relentless exploitation of hens’ reproductive systems to the misleading comfort of free-range labels, we’re often sold a fantasy far removed from reality.
And these are just the beginning.
In Part 2 of our myth-busting series, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most persistent misconceptions around hen biology and egg marketing—like why hens don’t naturally lay an egg a day, how artificial lighting is used to manipulate their cycles, and whether a dark orange yolk really means anything about the life the hen lived.
If you’ve ever been told eggs are the most natural food there is, stay tuned. The truth is far more engineered.
Sources & Further Reading
Debunking the Most Common Egg Industry Myths – Part 2 (coming June 2025)
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
From Cute to Cruel: What Spring Celebrations Mean for Chicks
Spring may symbolize new life, but for millions of chicks, most Easter traditions bring only suffering, neglect, and death.
Every spring, cultures around the globe celebrate the arrival of spring and Easter with vibrant colors, playful traditions, and the hope of renewal. But behind the festive imagery lies a harsh reality: many of these practices inflict cruelty on some of the most vulnerable creatures—chickens and baby chicks.
In this post, we delve into the unethical treatment of birds during these celebrations, exposing dark truths that most people overlook.
Dyeing Chicks for Easter: The Hidden Cruelty Behind Colorful Traditions
Every spring, brightly colored chicks appear in markets, pet stores, social media posts, and children's Easter baskets. With their pastel-dyed fluff in shades of pink, blue, green, and yellow, they may look festive and fun. But behind these artificially bright hues lies a disturbing tradition rooted in commercialization, animal suffering, and the trivialization of life.
A Tradition With Disturbing Roots
The practice of dyeing chicks for Easter likely stems from the older custom of dyeing Easter eggs—both representing themes of new life and rebirth. It gained popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, though references date back as early as the 1880s. The trend emerged as a commercial tactic to boost seasonal sales by marketing chicks as novelty gifts for children. Similar practices are found in countries like India, Malaysia, and China, where dyed chicks are still sold in markets as inexpensive toys or festive decorations.
The Process: Hidden Suffering for the Sake of Aesthetic
Distressing Methods: Dyeing often involves spraying or dunking fragile chicks into tubs of artificial coloring. In some cases, dyes are injected directly into the egg before hatching. Chicks are handled roughly—tossed into plastic bins, held down, or clumped together in large numbers.
Health Risks: The dyes may contain unregulated or toxic chemicals. Absorbed through the skin or inhaled, they can irritate the chicks’ delicate systems. The process causes stress, injury, and often long-term health issues—though few chicks live long enough for this to be studied.
Emotional Toll: Baby chicks are naturally vulnerable. The stress of being separated from their mothers, handled excessively, and altered against their will causes both psychological and physical suffering.
This cruel tradition not only represents animal abuse but reinforces a troubling attitude—where life is trivialized for the sake of entertainment.
Still Happening Today—Legally and Illegally
In the United States, dyeing chicks is illegal in about half of the states, but legal in the other half under certain conditions. For example, Florida briefly repealed its ban in 2012 before reinstating it a year later. Enforcement varies, and dyed chicks can still be found in states where the law remains vague or unenforced.
In New York City, where dyeing and selling colored animals is illegal, the ASPCA seized 49 dyed chicks from a Brooklyn pet store. The birds were being sold as Easter novelties, and half were identified as male—also illegal to keep within city limits. The chicks were later given sanctuary.
Globally, the tradition remains especially common in developing countries, where animal welfare laws are either lacking or poorly enforced. In many regions, the practice continues despite criticism from local and international animal advocacy groups.
The Aftermath: From Holiday Highlight to Abandoned Animal
Once Easter is over and the chick's bright color fades—or they begin to grow into adult birds—many families realize they are not equipped to care for a chicken who can live 10 to 15 years. The result? These animals are often discarded, abandoned in parks or backyards, or surrendered to overwhelmed shelters. Few survive, and many are euthanized or fall victim to predators.
This tradition not only reflects cruelty but also reinforces a mindset that treats sentient beings as disposable commodities. When animals are sold for a fleeting holiday aesthetic, their suffering is hidden behind pastel packaging and seasonal cheer.
Classroom Chick Hatching Projects: Why They Teach the Wrong Lesson
Hatching projects in schools are commonly marketed as enriching educational experiences, designed to teach young students about biology, responsibility, and the miracle of life. However, behind the well-meaning intent lies a troubling truth: these classroom experiments frequently harm the very creatures they aim to celebrate, sending unintended messages about animal disposability that persist well beyond the classroom walls.
When Education Betrays Ethics
Misguided Experiments: Classroom chick hatching projects in the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada often aim to teach children about life cycles. However, the reality is far more grim.
Developmental Abnormalities: Natural incubation involves a mother hen’s careful rotation of eggs—a process that cannot be easily replicated in schools. The result? Ill and deformed chicks that endure developmental suffering.
Unresolved Consequences: With no long-term plan for the chicks, schools frequently contribute to a cycle of neglect and abandonment. This practice teaches children that animals are disposable, undermining the values of compassion and respect for life.
Animal welfare organizations have repeatedly condemned these projects. Yet despite ongoing concerns, hatching chicks remains a common practice each spring—not only in schools, but also at home, where online tutorials now encourage families to hatch chicks using recycled materials, egg cartons, and makeshift incubators, further normalizing the idea that life is something to be created, observed, and discarded for entertainment.
Compassionate Alternatives
Thankfully, there are kinder, more responsible ways to teach children about life cycles and bird development. ‘Hatching Good Lessons’, a guide by ‘United Poultry Concerns’, offers engaging, age-appropriate activities for educators and parents. The booklet includes a variety of creative lessons for students in grades K–6 and highlights the ethical issues involved in live-animal hatching projects.
Gifting Live Chicks: An Easter Tradition with Serious Consequences
Gifting live chicks for Easter is often portrayed as a charming and innocent tradition, especially appealing to families with young children. These small, fluffy birds symbolize renewal, innocence, and joy—qualities perfectly aligned with springtime celebrations. Yet this tradition, while seemingly harmless, leads to serious consequences for the animals involved.
Many families underestimate the significant care and attention chickens require. Once the initial excitement fades and the chicks begin to grow, the reality of feeding, housing, and nurturing these animals sets in. Unprepared caregivers frequently abandon chicks or surrender them to shelters, where their futures remain uncertain. Animal welfare groups like ‘The Humane Society’ have highlighted this issue, noting a consistent increase in abandoned chicks shortly after Easter each year.
The practice of gifting live animals for seasonal amusement reinforces a damaging perception: that the value of a living creature depends solely on its novelty or entertainment value. By treating them as seasonal toys, we not only compromise their welfare but also perpetuate a culture of disposability toward living beings.
Compassionate Alternatives
Instead of gifting live animals, consider compassionate alternatives—such as plush toys, books, or activities—that celebrate the spirit of spring without contributing to animal neglect and abandonment. By choosing responsibly, we teach empathy, kindness, and the true meaning of caring for animals.
Easter Egg Demand: How Spring Celebrations Fuel Suffering
The Hidden Cost of Easter Eggs
The Easter season's surge in egg demand intensifies pressure on industrial production systems, which prioritize efficiency over animal wellbeing. While dyed or decorated eggs symbolize renewal and joy in cultural traditions, their industrial supply chain exposes a darker reality: large-scale operations often subject hens to overcrowded cages, debeaking without pain relief, and premature slaughter once productivity declines. This disconnect between festive symbolism and industrialized cruelty highlights a system where profit routinely outweighs ethical considerations.
Harmful Practices in Egg Production
Male Chick Culling
Male chicks face immediate disposal after hatching, deemed worthless in an industry that values only egg-laying females. Common methods like maceration (grinding alive) or suffocation highlight a chilling disregard for life, reducing sentient beings to mere “byproducts” of industrial efficiency. This routine elimination underscores a system that prioritizes profit margins over ethical responsibility.Debeaking and Confinement
Female chicks endure debeaking—a traumatic, unanesthetized procedure where sensitive beak tissue is sliced or burned—to prevent stress-induced pecking in overcrowded environments. Hens then spend their lives in confinement: battery cages restrict movement to a space smaller than an iPad, while “cage-free” systems often mean overcrowded warehouses where natural behaviors like dust-bathing remain impossible. These conditions create physical and psychological suffering, as birds are denied even basic species-specific needs.
Compassionate Alternatives
We believe there are always alternatives to products that perpetuate animal suffering. Consider embracing compassionate choices this Easter by exploring plant-based decor alternatives, such as wooden, ceramic, or papier-mâché eggs, or creative spring-themed crafts using flowers, seeds, or recycled materials. For inspiration, revisit our Last Year’s Easter Post, which shares creative ideas for egg-free celebrations, from natural dye experiments to symbolic rituals that honor renewal without exploitation.
Celebrate without Cruelty
As spring returns each year, so do the traditions we associate with it—eggs, chicks, baskets, and bright colors. But behind these familiar symbols lie stories of suffering, neglect, and exploitation. Chick dyeing, school hatching projects, live animal gifting, and the increased demand for eggs each Easter all point to a troubling truth: animals are still being used as decorations, experiments, and commodities in the name of celebration.
But it doesn't have to be this way. We can choose compassion. We can teach children to value life without causing harm. We can celebrate renewal without participating in cruelty.
This Easter, please leave chicks out of your shopping cart, eggs off your plate, and cruelty out of your celebrations. Choose alternatives that reflect not just the beauty of spring, but the kindness we all hope to carry into the world.
Sources & Further Reading
The Suffering of the Hens in the Egg Industry: Life of a Hen
How to Replace Eggs: Recipes and Resources
Ready to Go Vegan? Vegan Bootcamp
The Problem with Backyard Chickens
Backyard chicken keeping, while seemingly a kinder alternative to commercial egg production, often replicates the same ethical and practical issues on a smaller scale.
AI-generated Image
Backyard chicken keeping, even with the best intentions, often replicates the exploitation and ethical issues found in the commercial egg industry.
With egg prices soaring and increased animal welfare awareness, many turn to raising their own chickens for a steady supply of eggs. However well-intentioned these choices might seem, they often overlook the moral and practical implications of caring for animals. This blog post explores how small-scale chicken keeping can mirror the cruel realities of large commercial egg farms.
The Rise of Backyard Chicken Keeping
Backyard chicken keeping, a trend fueled by growing interest in sustainability and self-sufficiency, saw a significant boost during the pandemic. COVID-19 stay-at-home orders provided the time and motivation for many to set up “COVID coops.” According to the American Pet Products Association, an estimated 12 million people in the U.S. now keep backyard chickens.
Several factors have driven this trend. The sharp increase in egg prices and heightened concerns about food security have led many to seek a self-sufficient solution by raising their own chickens. Additionally, growing awareness of the inhumane conditions in factory farms has prompted a desire to pursue more ethical and health-conscious alternatives.
Chickens are perceived as a manageable choice for those looking to keep typically farmed animals. They require relatively little land and, once their basic needs for food and shelter are met, are considered low-maintenance. Furthermore, recent legal changes have facilitated the rise in backyard chicken ownership. For instance, Baltimore County recently updated its regulations to permit homeowners to keep up to four hens on a 10,000-square-foot lot, with allowances for additional birds based on property size.
The appeal of keeping chickens extends beyond merely obtaining fresh eggs. Chickens are intelligent and sociable, capable of forming strong bonds with their human caretakers, thus offering companionship and educational opportunities.
Despite the advantages, the idealized perception of backyard chickens often neglects significant ethical and practical challenges. As we delve deeper into these issues, it becomes clear that raising chickens for eggs, whether on a small scale or in a commercial setting, involves complex considerations that merit closer examination.
Image: WeAnimals Media
Replicating Industry Cruelties on a Smaller Scale
The charm of a backyard flock—complete with green grass, cozy nest boxes, and loving care—seems like a humane alternative to commercial egg production. Yet, despite its appealing facade, backyard chicken keeping often mirrors the same cruelties found in large-scale egg farming.
Focus on Egg Production Over Hen Welfare
Both commercial farms and backyard setups prioritize egg production, typically at the expense of the hens' health. Hens bred for high egg output face severe health issues such as osteoporosis and egg binding. Backyard keepers, aiming for a steady egg supply, will simply perpetuate these health concerns, further subjugating the well-being of their hens.The Rooster Dilemma
Backyard chicken keepers typically prefer hens due to their egg-laying abilities, which frequently results in the neglect or abandonment of roosters. Roosters are sometimes killed or abandoned if they accidentally end up in a flock. Additionally, purchasing chickens from commercial hatcheries supports the practice of mass male chick culling, as many hatcheries dispose of male chicks shortly after hatching.Economic Considerations Over Animal Lives
The economic calculus of maintaining backyard chickens can starkly reflect industry practices. When hens cease to lay eggs or fall ill, the cost of their upkeep versus the benefits of their egg production comes under scrutiny. Without access to proper veterinary care, many backyard chickens suffer from untreated health issues. Conditions like egg binding, exacerbated by excessive egg production, often go unaddressed. Rather than valuing the lives of these animals, some keepers may decide to cut their losses, echoing the industry's disregard for hens once they are no longer profitable.Premature Deaths
The culmination of these factors frequently leads to premature deaths among backyard chickens. Much like their commercial counterparts, these birds face early and avoidable deaths due to a combination of health issues, lack of proper care, and economic decisions. The tragic irony is that, despite the seemingly idyllic setting, the end result can be eerily similar to the outcomes seen in large-scale egg production.
Image: WeAnimals Media
The Ethics of Egg Production
Despite claims from some chicken keepers that their hens live pampered lives, this view often overlooks deeper ethical issues. Our relationship with animals should not be based on their ability to produce for us. Expecting animals to “earn their keep” through their output diminishes their intrinsic worth and dignity. This section explores the moral implications of using chickens for their eggs, highlighting the consequences of viewing hens as mere production units, crucial for understanding the broader implications of our relationship with animals.
Reducing Hens to Production Units:
When hens are kept primarily for their eggs, their worth is often seen through the lens of their egg production capabilities. This reductionist view can obscure their full range of needs and experiences. For instance, a backyard keeper might focus on maximizing egg yield rather than addressing the hens' natural behaviors or emotional well-being. This approach perpetuates the notion that hens are valuable only for the eggs they produce.The Exploitation of Reproductive Processes:
Hens bred for high egg production face physical and psychological strain. Even if a hen is kept in a caring environment, she is still a product of selective breeding that compels her to lay far more eggs than her natural cycle would dictate. This exploitation of her reproductive system continues regardless of her living conditions. The ethical concern is that, by consuming these eggs, we are benefiting from a system that forces hens into unnatural and often harmful reproductive practices.The Illusion of “Humane” Egg Production:
The perception that backyard eggs are more ethical can mask deeper ethical issues. For example, even well-intentioned backyard keepers might not fully address the complexities of hens' needs, such as their social interactions and natural behaviors. This illusion of “humane” egg production reinforces a false sense of ethical consumption, potentially leading people to underestimate the broader implications of using hens for eggs.Ethical Paradox of Egg Consumption:
The very act of eating eggs—regardless of their source—raises a moral dilemma. If hens are kept specifically for egg production, their well-being is tied to their ability to lay eggs. This creates a paradox: enjoying eggs involves benefiting from a system that inherently exploits hens. Even with the best intentions, consuming eggs from any source supports a practice rooted in exploitation.
Image: WeAnimals Media
Conclusion
We commend the genuine care many people show for their feathered friends. Yet, the ethical dilemmas of keeping chickens for eggs reveal that using animals for personal gain, even with the best intentions, undermines their intrinsic worth and dignity.
To truly honor their well-being, the most ethical approach is to move away from using hens as egg producers and value them for who they are. Let’s champion a world where animals are appreciated for their intrinsic worth, free from the demands of production and exploitation.
All About Roosters
All chickens on egg farms are hens? Billions of them worldwide. All chicks that hatch from fertilized eggs are 50% female and 50% male. But where are all the roosters?
Did you know that all chickens on egg farms are female?
Billions of them worldwide. All chicks that hatch from fertilized eggs are 50% female and 50% male. But where are all the roosters? And why do homesteaders fear accidentally buying male chicks?
Why Are Millions of Male Chicks Culled Annually?
Roosters hold significant cultural symbolism. In many cultures, including France, where the rooster is a national emblem, these birds symbolize courage, vigilance, and resilience. Yet, every year, millions of male chicks are deemed useless to the egg industry and are culled shortly after hatching. This widespread and disturbing practice occurs in large-scale mechanized facilities, where chicks are swiftly sorted by sex upon emerging from their shells. Because male chicks cannot lay eggs and are considered economically worthless, they are subjected to inhumane methods such as gassing or grinding alive.
The sheer scale of this practice is staggering. In the US alone, approximately 300 million male chicks are culled annually. This cruel practice is not isolated to any one country, but is a global phenomenon driven exclusively by the economics of egg production. Here, efficiency and profit outweigh any respect for life or ethical considerations.
An Excess of Roosters?
Nature equips every species with balance and purpose. So, did nature make a mistake by creating too many roosters? The truth is, human intervention in selective breeding and egg production has distorted this balance, leading to the mass slaughter of male chicks. It's not nature's flaw but a consequence of our manipulation and exploitation of animals for profit.
In their natural environment, roosters play crucial roles within chicken flocks. They are not just reproductive tools but leaders who protect their hens from predators, teach their chicks important survival skills, and maintain order within the flock. Roosters have distinct personalities and social hierarchies, where each bird contributes uniquely to the group's dynamics.
Furthermore, roosters are essential to the broader ecosystem. Their crowing serves as a natural alarm clock for both the flock and surrounding wildlife, helping maintain a balanced ecological niche. However, industrial egg production reduces roosters to disposable entities, disregarding their intrinsic value and undermining their vital ecological contributions.
Are Roosters Truly Misunderstood?
Roosters face a multitude of challenges. Apart from the systematic culling of male chicks in the egg industry, they confront additional hardships stemming from cultural misconceptions and legal restrictions. Often unfairly characterized as inherently aggressive, these birds frequently become victims of cockfighting, —a brutal practice where they are forced into lethal battles for human entertainment and gambling. This barbaric tradition perpetuates harmful stereotypes and contributes to widespread bans on rooster ownership in urban and suburban areas, further isolating these misunderstood creatures.
One dire consequence of these misconceptions is the implementation of legal restrictions that prevent homesteaders from keeping roosters. Many urban and suburban locales enforce strict bans or regulations due to concerns over noise, perceived aggression, or local ordinances. This, combined with a lack of interest and understanding of the true nature and essential role of roosters within chicken communities, poses significant challenges. When homesteaders primarily focus on hens for egg production rather than nurturing whole chicken families, they often fail to accommodate the social dynamics and needs of roosters. This oversight frequently leads homesteaders to resort to drastic measures such as rooster slaughter or abandonment, perpetuating the cycle of misunderstanding and exploitation.
Where Do Abandoned Roosters Find Refuge?
Some abandoned backyard roosters are fortunate to find refuge in sanctuaries dedicated to their rescue and rehabilitation. These sanctuaries provide a safe haven where roosters receive essential care, including medical attention, nutritious food, and companionship. Volunteers and sanctuary workers recount numerous heart-wrenching tales of abandonment and survival.
At Danzig Roost, for instance, volunteers regularly field desperate calls from homesteaders facing unexpected challenges with their roosters. Typically, these are from families who purchased chicks expecting hens, only to discover some of these are roosters they cannot keep later on. “These calls are all too familiar,” laments one volunteer. “It takes immense patience to listen without frustration… Reluctant to harm these birds, cherished by their children, they seek a compassionate solution.”
Melanie Moonstone from Rooster Redemption shares a similar experience: “When someone gets an ‘oops’ rooster, they just can’t get rid of them fast enough.” This sentiment underscores a broader issue within the backyard chicken farming trend. Hatcheries legally mail millions of baby chicks across the country, often with a minimum purchase requirement. With a sexing accuracy rate of 75 to 90%, a significant number of unwanted roosters are inevitably produced.
These “oops” roosters face grim fates: they are typically killed and eaten, dumped on the streets, or left to die from neglect or predation. Rooster Redemption, like many other sanctuaries, has shifted its focus from simply rescuing roosters to educating the public about the consequences of purchasing chicks.
Rooster Redemption isn't the only sanctuary trying to change the image of roosters. At The Browns' Microsanctuary, a rooster named Steve has become a social media star and a beloved ambassador for his species. His story is one of resilience and redemption, as he wins hearts online, educating about rooster behavior and dispelling myths. His and other rescue roosters’ gentle nature and affectionate interactions highlight roosters' inherent compassion and intelligence, a stark contrast to their portrayal in exploitative industries.
Sanctuaries like the Rooster Sanctuary at ‘Danzig Roost’, ‘The Browns' Microsanctuary’, and ‘Rooster Redemption’ stand as beacons of hope, rescuing roosters and providing them with a safe haven. And they all hold the same vision close to their hearts: a world where roosters thrive in natural settings, among their peers, valued for their distinct personalities, and honored for their rightful place in the world.
What Can I Do?
Recognizing the link between egg consumption and the fate of male chicks is crucial in understanding the ethical implications of our food choices. By advocating for roosters and reconsidering our consumption habits, we can contribute to a more compassionate future where these birds are respected for their innate qualities. Embracing a plant-based, egg-free diet aligns with values of kindness and compassion toward all living beings.
In-Ovo Sexing
'Revolutionary' technologies like in-ovo sexing are hailed as solutions to ethical concerns in the egg industry. But the elimination of male chick culling does little to address the inherent ethical dilemmas of egg production.
AI-generated image based on sexing technology
Step into the egg industry's latest buzz: In-ovo sexing.
While sensationalized as “The cutting-edge technology trying to save millions of male chicks from being gassed” and “A Simple New Technique Could Make Your Eggs More Humane” by major media outlets, the truth is more complex. Eliminating male chick culling doesn't make the egg industry and egg consumption humane or ethical.
In the egg industry, when male chicks hatch, they're often discarded because they can't lay eggs. This practice is called male chick culling. This widespread practice has long raised ethical questions about the treatment of animals within industrial farming.
Enter in-ovo sexing, a technological invention hailed as a solution to this ethical dilemma. By allowing farmers to determine the sex of developing embryos within eggs, in-ovo sexing ostensibly offers a way to avoid the mass culling of hatched male chicks. However, as we delve deeper into this topic, it becomes apparent that while this may address one aspect of the industry's ethical concerns, it fails to respond to the broader issues inherent in egg production.
This post will explore the technologies utilized in in-ovo sexing, its adoption and adaptation in various regions, the economic incentives driving its implementation, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding its use. We'll delve into why in-ovo sexing does not resolve the fundamental ethical dilemma of exploiting and killing animals for eggs, and highlight the ongoing suffering of hens in the egg industry.
The Egg Production Process
The egg production process is a cycle of systematic exploitation and suffering for chickens, starting from the parent flocks and ending at the slaughterhouse. Each stage in this process is designed to maximize efficiency and profit, often at the expense of the animals' well-being.
The Egg Production Process — From Breeder Farm to Slaughterhouse
From Parent Flocks to Hatcheries
Parent flocks, the starting point of the egg production process, consist of hens and roosters bred specifically to produce fertile eggs. These birds endure stressful conditions, often kept in confined spaces with minimal freedom. Once the eggs are laid, they are incubated for approximately 21 days until they hatch. The hatchlings are then sent to the sexing room, where they are sorted based on gender. Male chicks, deemed economically useless for egg production, are shredded alive or suffocated shortly after hatching.
Image: Otwarte Klatki
This brutal practice has drawn significant ethical scrutiny, prompting the industry to seek technological solutions. One such advancement is in-ovo sexing, which attempts to address the immediate cruelty of culling male chicks by determining their sex before they hatch.
Understanding In-Ovo Sexing
Hailed as a pivotal advancement in the poultry industry, in-ovo sexing empowers farmers to determine the sex of developing embryos within eggs, allowing the removal of male eggs before they hatch.
Technologies Used for In-Ovo Sexing
CHEGGY - Automated sex determination
Two primary methods have emerged for in-ovo sexing, both already in commercial use. Imaging technologies such as MRI or hyperspectral imaging allow for non-invasive sex determination by peering through the eggshell. Alternatively, fluid samples from eggs can undergo analysis using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or mass spectrometry to detect sex chromosomes or hormones. These diverse techniques share the common goal of distinguishing between male and female embryos, thereby preventing the need to cull male chicks after they hatch.
Though this has been promoted as a solution to the most publicized cruelty in the egg industry, the adoption and investment in such expensive technologies are driven primarily by profit.
Financial and Efficiency Incentives
In-ovo sexing provides substantial economic benefits to the egg industry. By automating the chick sexing process, this technology reduces the need for labor-intensive manual methods, minimizing associated labor costs. It streamlines production processes, increases throughput, and optimizes resource utilization by eliminating the need to hatch and cull male chicks. This results in significant cost savings on feed and incubator space.
A research paper example indicates that while there is no profit in dead male chicks, culled eggs can be repurposed, creating potential revenue streams from the sale of these eggs for alternative purposes, such as animal feed or biogas production. Additionally, eggs from in-ovo sexed hens command a modest premium of 1-3 euro cents per egg in European markets, further enhancing the economic appeal of this technology.
Adoption and Adaptation*
In Europe, over 15 percent of layer hens, approximately 56.4 million, have undergone in-ovo sexing processes. Initially driven by regulatory mandates in countries like Germany, France, and Italy, its adoption has expanded to nations without such mandates, including Norway, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Recent developments in the United States signal an impending integration of in-ovo sexing technology into the American egg industry by 2025, led by companies like Egg Innovations.
Lingering Issues — The Egg Production Continued
While in-ovo sexing eliminates the need to cull male chicks, it does not address the broader ethical issues associated with egg production and farming. To understand the full extent of cruelty in the egg industry, we need to look at the entire egg production process.
Rearing and Exploitation of Female Chicks
The female chicks undergo de-beaking and vaccinations before being moved to rearing facilities where they remain until they reach egg-laying maturity. De-beaking, a painful procedure performed without anesthesia, is intended to prevent the hens from injuring each other in their cramped living conditions. Once mature, these hens are transferred to laying facilities where they spend their lives in confinement, often in battery cages that restrict their movement and cause immense physical and psychological stress.
The Life of Egg-Laying Hens
Hens in the egg production industry are subjected to relentless exploitation. Genetically modified to lay an unnatural number of eggs, they suffer from various health issues, including ovarian cancer, osteoporosis and reproductive problems. The industry's practice of “forced molting”—inducing hens to lay more eggs through starvation and manipulation of lighting conditions—further adds to their suffering. Even in free-range systems, hens endure overcrowding and inadequate living conditions, which lead to ongoing physical and emotional trauma.
Image: Oikeutta eläimille “Enriched cage hen house, Southwest Finland”
The End of the Cycle: Slaughter
After approximately 18 months, when their egg production declines, hens are deemed “spent” and are removed from the cages. They are crammed into transport crates and taken to slaughterhouses. The slaughter process is brutal, often involving live shackling, stunning, and throat-slitting. This final act of cruelty ends a life characterized by relentless suffering and exploitation.
Although the elimination of male chick culling might seem like a positive change, it merely scratches the surface of a much deeper ethical quagmire within the egg industry. To truly address the moral issues, we must look beyond technological fixes and confront the broader system of exploitation and suffering.
Ethical Concerns with In-Ovo Sexing
In-ovo sexing, a technology designed to identify the sex of embryos before they hatch, addresses the immediate cruelty of culling male chicks. However, it does not resolve the fundamental ethical issues inherent in the egg industry. This technology still involves the manipulation and destruction of embryos, treating animals as mere commodities. The primary ethical issues with in-ovo sexing lie in its perpetuation of the larger system of exploitation and cruelty.
While in-ovo sexing eliminates the visible cruelty of killing live male chicks, it fails to recognize the intrinsic value of animal lives. The destruction of male embryos, although less visibly cruel, still represents a disregard for the lives of these animals. By focusing on a technological fix, the industry avoids addressing the deeper ethical problems of using animals for human purposes.
Image: Otwarte Klatki “Laying cage farms (2019)”
Conclusion
While advancements like in-ovo sexing attempt to address some ethical concerns in the egg industry, sensationalized headlines such as “The cutting-edge technology trying to save millions of male chicks from being gassed” and “A Simple New Technique Could Make Your Eggs More Humane” by major media outlets like The New York Times and Fast Company are misleading. Eliminating male chick culling doesn't make the egg industry and the consumption of eggs humane or ethical.
Technological advancements like in-ovo sexing address only the surface-level cruelties, leaving the core issue of animal exploitation untouched. True progress lies in moving away from using animals for food altogether.
Recognizing the immorality of killing baby chicks should also lead us to recognize the immorality of exploiting and killing millions of hens. Every stage of egg production inflicts suffering and denies chickens a life of dignity and freedom. By choosing not to consume eggs, you take a stand against the systemic cruelty and exploitation in the egg industry. Your choices can help create a kinder world for animals, one where they are not viewed as commodities but as beings deserving of respect and compassion.
Please leave eggs off your plate.
Scrambling for Solutions: Ethical Choices for Easter Eggs
Easter, a time of joy and renewal, masks the harsh reality of hens suffering in the egg industry, facing confinement and exploitation. Behind the colorful Easter eggs lies a story of confinement, deprivation, and exploitation for these birds, offering no hope of renewal or rebirth.
Modified image depicting a hen in a battery cage, sourced from an Andrew Skowron photograph.
Easter embodies hope and new beginnings; except, that is, for the billions of lives whose exploitation is the basis of an increasingly popular and thoroughly unsustainable seasonal celebration.
For many, painting, hiding, and finding eggs are family traditions soaked in childhood memories, a celebration of life's triumphs and the promise of brighter days ahead. Innocent and fashionable activities popularized by international media. However, beneath the surface of painted eggs and joyful hunts lies the harsh reality of layer hens' suffering. There is no renewal or rebirth for them. Rather, and as we have shown time and again, their existence under the egg industry is one of perpetual confinement, pain, and premature death; a life of unimaginable hardships deprived of basic freedoms, and subjected to relentless exploitation.
The Story Behind Egg Coloring and Its Ethical Implications
The practice of coloring and decorating eggs has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries and cultures. It is believed to have originated from ancient pagan rituals celebrating the arrival of spring and the resurgence of life in nature. Eggs, as symbols of fertility and transformation, were often adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs, marking the transition from winter's dormancy to spring's vibrancy.
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Easter, as a religious celebration rooted in Christianity, further contributed to the tradition of egg coloring and decorating. During Lent, practicing followers of the belief abstained from certain foods, including eggs. This practice resulted in a surplus of eggs accumulating by Easter, providing the practical basis for the tradition of decorating eggs as a symbol of new life and hope during Easter celebrations. However, it's important to note that the abundance of eggs during this time is not a natural occurrence but rather a consequence of human intervention. The continuous laying of eggs by chickens, unlike most other birds, is a result of selective breeding and genetic manipulation, representing a cruel tinkering with their bodies and reproductive systems.
As the tradition progressed, eggs became intertwined with Christian beliefs, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ and the promise of new life. This tradition evolved into a cherished custom, passed down through generations. Eventually, Easter egg hunts transcended religious and cultural boundaries, becoming a beloved universal activity. However, this popularity coincided with the industrialization of egg production, leading to increased suffering for hens in factory-like operations. Without this industrialization, the tradition could not have reached its current global scale.
Navigating Welfare Challenges during Peak Seasons
The decoration of and with eggs during Easter has indeed become a global phenomenon, marking the second-busiest time for egg sales following the winter holidays. However, this year, the industry faces compounded challenges due to the widespread bird flu outbreak, resulting in the loss of over 13.64 million hens, used for table eggs, in the United States since November.
But it's not just the holiday demand and the smaller stock sizes that have farmers struggling to supply enough eggs; recent welfare updates in states like California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, and Washington have added to their challenges. Despite consumers noticing the surge in retail prices due to heightened demand, they frequently fail to recognize the escalated suffering experienced by hens, irrespective of the barn setting. Many express their frustration publicly, seeking cheaper alternatives, despite their previous voting support for 'better hen welfare' initiatives just a few months ago.
This inconsistency in supporting policies with words rather than actions is also evident internationally. For instance, a significant loophole has recently come to light regarding Germany’s ban on male chick killing. Although celebrated as a major win, there is no prohibition on the import of eggs, or egg products, from countries that still allow the killing of male chicks. This includes pre-dyed Easter eggs that flood the market during festive periods. Furthermore, while the ban addresses the high number of dead male chicks, the female hens are still subject to exploitation and early death. The poultry industry's alert about eggs sourced from farms where chick culling persists highlights how consumers, who were the main driver for the culling ban, often compromise their ethical values when confronted with higher prices and limited supply.
While changes in the current food system are essential, particularly regarding animal wellbeing, the difficulties of balancing the demands of various interested parties–from stakeholders and farmers to consumers and animal welfare organizations–raises a key question: why is the emphasis solely on transitioning to cage-free systems rather than exploring egg-free alternatives or reducing egg consumption?
In a previous blog post, we argue that if we are looking at alternatives for animal eggs in our cooking and baking, we find that there are plenty of economical and healthier options available, even for traditional Easter crafts. Considering this, let's delve into exploring eco-friendly egg-free options for Easter celebrations.
Discovering Ethical Alternatives for Easter Celebrations
This Easter, let's hop into a world of creativity and compassion by exploring egg-free options for coloring and crafting. Whether you're crafting with kids or enjoying some solo artistic time, there are plenty of sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional egg dyeing.
Sustainable Coloring Options:
Plant-Based Dyes
Utilize the vibrant colors found in fruits and vegetables like beets, spinach, turmeric, and blueberries to create beautiful and natural dyes.Natural Food Coloring
Opt for organic and plant-based food coloring options available in stores for a convenient yet eco-friendly choice.DIY Eco-Dyes
Get crafty with homemade dyes using ingredients like tea, coffee, onion skins, and paprika for unique and earthy hues.
Vegan Egg Alternatives:
Wooden Eggs
Reusable and biodegradable, wooden eggs are a durable and eco-friendly option for egg crafting.Ceramic Eggs
Long-lasting and recyclable, ceramic eggs offer a sustainable alternative to traditional eggs.DIY Paper Mache Eggs
Create your own eco-friendly eggs using recycled paper and non-toxic glue for a fun and sustainable crafting experience.Plastic-Free Plastic Eggs
Look for plastic-free plastic eggs made from biodegradable materials for a less harmful option.Plastic Eggs
If using plastic eggs, opt for those made from recycled materials and commit to reusing them in future Easter celebrations.
Craft Compassionately:
Reuse and Recycle
Instead of buying new crafting materials, repurpose items from around the house like old fabric scraps, cardboard, or paper to reduce waste.Go Digital
Explore virtual Easter egg decorating apps or online platforms for eco-friendly and waste-free crafting fun.Spread Kindness
Incorporate acts of kindness into your Easter celebrations, such as making DIY gifts for loved ones or donating to local animal sanctuaries in honor of the holiday.
Easter, with its rich tapestry of tradition and symbolism, invites us to reflect not only on the joys of renewal and celebration but also on the ethical considerations that accompany our festive traditions. The vibrant history of egg coloring reminds us of the interconnectedness of our choices and the impact they have on the world.
In the midst of fluctuating food prices and economic uncertainty, it's more important than ever to approach our diets with mindfulness and intention. By opting for egg-free alternatives, we reduce our ecological footprint and extend our compassion to the animals who share our planet.
As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Easter and the arrival of spring, may our plates be filled with nourishing food that honors the earth and all its inhabitants.
Best wishes for a holiday season filled with joy, love, and kindness, both on our plates and in our hearts, not just during the holidays but every day beyond.
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
The Cage-Free Illusion: Part 1
Unravel the paradox of the cage-free movement: while hailed as progress, it inadvertently perpetuates systemic issues within the egg industry. Delve into the hidden realities shaping our food system and challenge the status quo with us.
Source: WeAnimals Media
Imagine it is the year 2124!
And, in a world liberated from the shadows of industrial animal agriculture, a young scholar traverses history, probing the slow evolution toward a vegan world. Amidst the enigma of humanity's transition, the scholar encounters the perplexing saga of the cage-free campaign—a purportedly noble initiative tainted by misguided optimism. Activists, employing the foot-in-the-door strategy, aimed for incremental shifts toward cruelty-free futures. Yet, the scholar's exploration unveils a stark reality: the industry cunningly exploited this approach, weaponizing it to evade accountability and perpetuate their cruel practices unimpeded.
As we transition from the idyllic realms of our vegan future back to the present, we confront the harsh realities of today's egg industry. Cage-free systems, heralded as a step towards humane egg production, present themselves as an alternative to traditional battery cages. However, beneath the veneer of progress lies a landscape of exploitation and compromise.
Cage-free: A Definition
Cage-free housing systems in egg production aim to create open environments within barns or buildings, allowing hens to engage in natural behaviors such as perching, nesting, and dust bathing. Unlike conventional cage systems, which confine hens to small wire enclosures, cage-free setups eliminate individual cages to provide freedom of movement.
The primary difference between cage-free and cage systems is the absence of closed wire enclosures. In cage-free systems, hens have the liberty to move around and interact with their environment, promoting their physical and psychological well-being. Unlike free-range and pasture systems that offer outdoor access, cage-free environments typically house hens indoors within spacious barns or buildings, offering protection from predators and adverse weather conditions.
Cage-free: The History
The transition to cage-free egg farms began to gain momentum in the late 20th century, with early initiatives taking root in countries such as Switzerland and the Netherlands during the 1980s and 1990s. These pioneering efforts laid the groundwork for subsequent developments in cage-free egg production, serving as test cases for alternative housing systems aimed at improving the welfare of laying hens. As consumer awareness of animal welfare issues grew and regulatory scrutiny intensified, other countries soon followed suit, with significant advancements in cage-free farming observed across Europe, North America, and Oceania by the early 21st century.
Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, a wave of legislative reforms and corporate commitments further accelerated the transition to cage-free egg production worldwide. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom implemented regulations mandating the phase-out of conventional battery cages in favor of enriched and cage-free systems, signaling a paradigm shift in the global egg industry. Similarly, major retailers and food corporations began to adopt cage-free egg sourcing policies in response to consumer demand for more ethically produced eggs, driving further investment and innovation in cage-free infrastructure.
By the 2020s, cage-free egg farms had become more prevalent across the globe, with an increasing share of the supply chains in countries such as the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand. Despite initial resistance from the egg industry, the momentum towards cage-free production continued to grow, fueled by a combination of consumer activism, regulatory mandates, and corporate commitments to animal welfare.
This map shows the dominant housing systems on commercial egg farms around the world (click on map to enlarge and zoom in). Source: welfareproject.org
As we peer into the landscape of cage-free egg production across different regions, it's essential to understand the nuanced approaches and regulatory frameworks shaping these systems. By examining the specifics of cage-free farming in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Australia, we can gain deeper insights into the diverse practices and trends driving the evolution of egg production worldwide.
Cage-free: In Comparison
In the USA, Canada, the UK, the EU, and Australia, cage-free systems typically offer more space per hen compared to conventional cage systems, with average space allocations ranging from 550 to 750 square centimeters per hen. Flock sizes in cage-free systems vary widely, often accommodating tens of thousands of hens in large barns or buildings. The size of cage-free barns also varies, with some facilities spanning over 100 meters in length and 25 meters in width to accommodate the large number of hens housed within them. The transition to cage-free housing varies among producers and is influenced by factors such as market demand, regulatory requirements, and industry initiatives.
| Countries | USA | Canada | UK | EU | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Hens in Barn (Range, Average) | 1,000 - 100,000 (average varies) | 1,000 - 80,000 (average varies) | 1,000 - 80,000 (average varies) | 1,000 - 100,000 (average varies) | 1,000 - 80,000 (average varies) |
| Space per Hen | 1.0 - 1.5 sqm (10.8 - 16.1 sqft) |
1.0 - 1.5 sqm (10.8 - 16.1 sqft) |
1.0 - 1.5 sqm (10.8 - 16.1 sqft) |
0.75 sqm ( 8.1 sqft) |
0.55 sqm (5.9 sqft) |
| Depopulation Age | 80 - 100 weeks | 70 - 100 weeks | 72 weeks | 72 weeks | 80 weeks |
| Number of Eggs per Hen | 250 - 320 eggs/year | 250 - 320 eggs/year | 250 - 320 eggs/year | 250 - 320 eggs/year | 250 - 320 eggs/year |
| Cage-Free vs Caged | 39% cage-free, 61% caged |
17% cage-free, 83% caged |
79% cage-free, 21% caged |
55% cage-free, 45% caged |
57% cage-free, 43% caged |
| Cage-free by | 2025 | 2036 | 2027 | 2027 | 2036 |
Cage-free: The Hens
Hens, like many creatures, have natural behaviors and preferences that contribute to their well-being. They enjoy basking in the sunlight, scratching the earth for food, and seeking out safe, secluded spots for nesting. In small flock sizes, they establish pecking orders and maintain social structures.
However, the reality for hens in cage-free barns starkly contrasts with their natural inclinations. Instead of sun-drenched pastures and earthy substrates, they find themselves confined within crowded, windowless buildings. Opportunities for natural behaviors like dust bathing and foraging are limited, with thousands of hens competing for space and resources. Nesting areas may lack privacy, disrupting the hens' instinctual need for seclusion during egg-laying.
Despite claims that cage-free systems offer a more humane alternative to traditional battery cages, a closer examination reveals significant shortcomings.
By comparing key factors such as hatchery practices, flock sizes, laying illnesses, and early slaughter rates, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the true impact of egg production on animal well-being.
| Battery Cages | Enriched Cages | Cage-Free | Free-Range | Pasture Raised | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchery Sourced (Male Chick Culling) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bred for Overproduction | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Laying Illnesses | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Early Slaughter | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Hatchery Sourced (Male Chicks Culling): In the egg industry, hatcheries are responsible for supplying laying hens. However, the process of hatchery sourcing involves separating male and female chicks shortly after hatching. Male chicks, deemed economically nonviable for egg production, are typically culled, often through methods like maceration or gassing. While cage-free systems do not directly address the issue of hatchery sourcing, they perpetuate the demand for hatchery-supplied hens, contributing to the inherent cruelty of chick culling practices.
Bred for Overproduction: Selective breeding within the egg industry aims to maximize egg production efficiency, typically at the expense of hen well-being. Hens in cage-free systems are bred for traits such as high egg production rates and feed efficiency, leading to overproduction and strain on their bodies. While cage-free environments may offer slightly more space and freedom of movement compared to traditional cages, the underlying issue of over breeding persists, exacerbating health problems and reducing overall welfare.
Laying Illnesses: Cage-free housing systems, despite providing hens with minimally more space and some environmental enrichment, do not eliminate the risk of laying-related health issues. High egg production rates can lead to reproductive disorders such as egg binding and prolapse, as well as metabolic disorders like osteoporosis. Additionally, the crowded conditions in cage-free barns may increase the spread of diseases and parasites among hens, further compromising their well-being.
Early Slaughter: While cage-free systems may offer a slightly longer lifespan for hens compared to battery cages, the ultimate fate of laying hens remains the same—early slaughter. Hens in cage-free environments are typically slaughtered after one to two years of egg production, far short of their natural lifespan. Despite claims of improved welfare, cage-free systems perpetuate the cycle of premature slaughter inherent in the egg industry, underscoring the ethical concerns associated with egg production as a whole.
As we conclude our exploration of cage-free egg production, it's evident that the industry's narrative of ethical progress is far from straightforward. Despite the promise of marginal improvements in hen welfare, cage-free systems fail to address fundamental issues ingrained in egg production. From unresolved hatchery practices to premature slaughter, the realities of cage-free farming underscore the pressing need for a comprehensive reassessment of our treatment of animals within our food systems.
Before wrapping up, it's essential to highlight the shortcomings of corporate commitments and the accountability of animal rights organizations. Despite promises of reform, many corporations have failed to deliver on their pledges, while some animal rights groups have struggled to hold the egg industry accountable in certain regions for falling short on commitments.
Moreover, the proliferation of cage-free campaigns championed by welfare organizations worldwide has ignited significant debate within vegan and animal rights circles. Join us as we examine the motivations behind these campaigns, their impact on consumer perceptions, and whether they genuinely serve the interests of animal welfare or inadvertently perpetuate the status quo of animal exploitation in Part 2.
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
How to Love All Animals
Veganism is about shattering that carnist lens and seeing the individuals behind our meals and removing them from our plates one by one. It’s about discovering that we can thrive on plant-based foods alone. It’s about learning that the future of our food system isn't factory farming or genetic manipulation, but rather love, compassion, and the abundant variety of plant-based proteins.
Image: WeAnimals Media
Do you believe animals, much like us, should live free from needless suffering? Does the thought of causing harm to them trouble your conscience? If you find yourself nodding in agreement, you're not alone. There's a vast community of compassionate individuals who, despite their diverse dietary choices, share a common bond—empathy for animals.
The way we perceive animals is undergoing a significant shift. Despite many of us labeling ourselves as animal lovers, the legal view of animals has often reduced them to mere property rather than feeling beings. However, something intriguing is stirring. Recent studies are illustrating a remarkable change – around 47% of the British population today acknowledges that animals deserve the same rights as humans to escape suffering. Another 71% firmly believe causing animals pain is wrong.
These numbers aren't just figures; they signify a profound transformation. It’s as if science and law are catching up to what our innate feelings have always told us – creatures such as dogs, chickens, octopuses, and even lobsters are akin to us; they possess thoughts and emotions. This awakening may very well be global. Nowadays, when the media reports on human-inflicted cruelties and crises in relation to animals, like a lost companion animal or an escaped animal from a zoo (or perhaps an egg farm), it's as though a collective cry of outrage bursts from our hearts.
But what about the animals commonly found on our plates: cows, pigs, and chickens? Do they, too, deserve lives free of pain and suffering? Often, the distinction between which animals we cherish and which we consume is vividly illustrated in a popular meme:
Original Source: unknown
To understand the morality behind the public’s perception of some animals as friends while others are thought of as food, let’s focus on what psychologists call 'carnism'—the invisible belief system influencing us to eat certain animals while sparing others.
‘Carnism’ acts as a buffer, veiling the realities of our choices, enabling us to relish a Sunday roast while overlooking the animal's suffering that brought it to our plate. This conundrum finds its roots in the complexities of the animal food industry, where money, intricate supply chains, and neatly packaged products act as a shield. This disconnect between us and the source of our food allows us to act in ways that might seem unethical in other contexts. Yet, even the deep pockets of the animal food industry can’t fully blind our hearts from some suffering in their products.
For instance, while many enjoy scrambled eggs for breakfast or crack some eggs to bake some treats without a second thought, the concept of male chick culling often evokes a sense of moral unease. This practice is an inherent part of the egg industry, where male chicks are shredded or killed shortly after hatching, as they are considered of no use to the egg-laying process.
Images: human.cruelties
So, let's focus on this gap, this crack in the carnist food lens to truly see these chicks as vulnerable babies that yearn for life. To us, this realization speaks of a wider reality, namely, that the majority of people are vegan at heart.
Often, the very mention of the “v” word is enough to send people running for the hills with their cheese and omelettes in hand, including self-professed animal lovers who would otherwise agree that animals deserve to be free from pain and suffering. In truth, we can hardly blame them. The image of vegans in the media paints us as extremist, judgmental, even confrontational. However, the reality of veganism is quite different. It's not about passing moral judgments or extremism. Instead, it's a reminder that, deep down, most of us are uncomfortable with the idea of animals suffering needlessly, like the culling of male chicks in the egg industry.
That is what veganism is about. It’s about shattering that carnist lens and seeing the individuals behind our meals and removing them from our plates one by one. It’s about discovering that we can thrive on plant-based foods alone. It’s about learning that the future of our food system isn't factory farming or genetic manipulation, but rather love, compassion, and the abundant variety of plant-based proteins.
As we conclude, we invite everyone to celebrate World Vegan Month and take part in the journey toward a more compassionate lifestyle. Embrace this opportunity to explore and discover the diverse world of plant-based foods.
For those curious or interested in learning more, we encourage participation in the Vegan Bootcamp.
Alex Ventimilla, Advisor
Alex is a third-year PhD student in the Department of English and Film Studies at the University of Alberta.
Passionate about ecology, he firmly believes in the impact of storytelling on shaping our perspectives. He believes that the narratives we engage with through reading, watching, and listening play a crucial role in defining our connections with both human and non-human beings.
Dead Ones - Exposing the Truth for True Transformation
With the EU's unified trade area, consumers find it challenging to track the origins of the eggs they purchase, especially when used as ingredients. In May and June 2023, two undercover activists documented the grim reality of hens kept on a farm operated by the largest egg producer in Poland and the entire European Union – Fermy Drobiu Woźniak.
In the realm of animal welfare standards, the European Union (EU) has earned a reputation as a global leader. Yet, this reputation doesn't uniformly extend to the conditions of laying hens across EU member states. Within the EU's integrated trade zone, consumers encounter a formidable challenge – deciphering the origins of the eggs they buy, particularly when utilized as ingredients.
As consumers within the European Union grapple with the challenge of tracing the origins of the eggs they purchase, a chilling exposé has emerged. In May and June 2023, two dedicated undercover activists, Oksana and Sasha, embarked on a harrowing journey into the heart of the continent's largest egg producer – Fermy Drobiu Woźniak, nestled in Wioska, Poland. Their six-week odyssey within the sprawling facility, which boasted 'enriched cages' as a supposed improvement over battery cages, bore witness to unimaginable suffering. Their account sheds light on the stark realities of egg production—here is what they found:
“‘Enriched cages’ were introduced as an alternative to battery cages. But for hens, this transition has been far from liberating. They continue to suffer in cramped and unnatural environments.”
Stress, aggression, cannibalism, cramped cages, unbearable heat, and swarms of fleas – these were the daily horrors revealed by the investigation.
Cramped Cages
The cages on the farm were incredibly cramped, with hens barely having room to move. Hens had to squeeze through crowded spaces, making it impossible for them to spread their wings. The lack of space was agonizing for these birds.Cannibalism and Feather Pecking
Stress from overcrowding led to aggression among the hens. They fought for space and access to the nest, resulting in feather pecking and even cannibalism. Weaker hens were often pecked to death by their fellow birds.Painful Deformities
The mesh floor of the cages caused severe foot deformities in many hens. Their toes bent painfully in the opposite direction, causing excruciating pain. No help was provided, and they were left to suffer alone.Slow and Inhumane Deaths
Injuries from the metal perches were common, and hens trapped there were left to die slowly from hunger and thirst. There was no procedure to help injured or sick hens, and everyday veterinary care was nonexistent. Defective cages proved deadly for many.
Just a few of the many snapshots taken by Oksana and Sasha during their undercover investigation. Source: Otwarte Klatki
Fermy Drobiu Woźniak, being the largest egg producer in Poland and the EU, raises questions about the conditions for hens across the industry. Across the European Union, there are, in fact, significant disparities in laying hen welfare. While some countries have made strides in transitioning to more humane systems, others lag. For instance, while Germany keeps the majority of their hens in cage-free systems (>60%), the neighboring countries of Poland, The Czech Republic, and Slovakia still keep over 70% of laying hens in cages.
This map shows the dominant housing systems on commercial egg farms around the world (click on map to enlarge and zoom in). Source: welfareproject.org
A hen escaped the cages and stands in front of a pile of crushed eggs. Source: Otwarte Klatki
In our pursuit of ethical and humane eggs, the global landscape of egg production, as revealed in the linked map, sheds light on the challenges consumers face. This desire for better conditions for hens often remains unfulfilled, as demonstrated by the Polish undercover investigation. This investigation serves as a stark reminder that the transition from battery cages to ‘enriched cages’ may not always deliver the expected improvements for hens.
As consumers, we supported this transition with the hope of more ethical eggs, but it's crucial to consider whether we may have been inadvertently misled. We've explored the grim realities of these housing systems in prior posts, accessible here and here, offering an opportunity for us to reflect on our choices and demand genuine humane treatment for hens.
It's worth recognizing that the fight for improved conditions must go beyond the superficial shift from cages to 'cage-free.' It's an invitation to be more discerning when navigating the options on supermarket shelves. We understand that this can be challenging. It's a journey fraught with difficult decisions, and we've all been conditioned to believe in the status quo.
But let's take a moment to imagine this from the hen's perspective – a life filled with cramped spaces, aggression, and suffering. We believe that deep down, all of us share a common desire for a more compassionate world, not just for ourselves but for all living beings. The path to a cruelty-free life for hens, as well as a more compassionate world for all animals, begins on our plates. By embracing egg-free diets and supporting alternatives that respect the well-being of hens, we can take a significant step toward honoring their plea for a life free from suffering.
Please leave eggs off your plate.
Otwarte Klatki’s goal is to prevent animal suffering by introducing systemic social changes, documenting the conditions of industrial farming and education promoting positive attitudes towards animals.
Their latest investigation into Fermy Drobiu Woźniak can we found here (viewers discretion advised).
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
Peeling Back the Layers of the Egg Industry: Egg-Truth Team on 'The Vegan Report'
Egg-truth.com is the initiative revealing what goes on behind the scenes of the egg industry. Beyond the marketing lies of the poultry business hides a harsh reality of merciless exploitation. Join Nigel, Julie, and Ryan in discussing the fate of chickens, the largest standing population of a single bird species in Earth's history.
The Egg-Truth Team is on ‘The Vegan Report’ podcast, where we expose the truths about the egg industry. Beyond the glossy façade of the poultry business, we're unmasking the harsh truths that lie beneath the surface.
But this is no ordinary podcast. It's a unique opportunity to meet us—Nigel and Julie—face-to-face on camera. We're sharing our personal vegan journeys and the driving force behind our mission.
Join us as we further discuss the origin of Egg-Truth and the unwavering motivation that propels us to amplify the voices of hens trapped within the egg industry. From dismantling misleading marketing narratives to peering into the lives of the largest population of a single bird species in Earth's history, this episode is a deep dive into our food system.
Together with Ryan, we aim to uncover the truth and empower listeners to make more compassionate choices—ultimately encouraging them to leave eggs off their plate.
Listen to “The Brutal Truth Behind the Egg Industry” on Every Podcast and uncover the realities that drive us to make a difference.
The Vegan Report offers you a window into the global fight for animal welfare. If you are an animal lover, subscribe now! Don't miss out on educational, fascinating, and inspiring conversations for a more compassionate and just world.
Episodes are posted every Tuesday. The Vegan Report is also on YouTube (@veganreportpodcast) and Instagram (@veganreportpodcast).
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
The Motherhood We Ignore: The Exploitation of Mother Hens in the Egg Industry
The blog post discusses the cruel treatment of female parent flocks in the egg industry, who are often subjected to inhumane conditions and never get to experience motherhood, despite the maternal instincts of hens.
Mother's Day is a time to celebrate the love, compassion, and sacrifice of mothers everywhere. A time to reflect on the role that they play in shaping our society and building a better future for all of us. We must remember, however, that not all mothers are treated with the love and respect they deserve.
According to United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization the vast majority of farmed animals, are female, and they are often subjected to unspeakable cruelty in the name of food. This includes cows used for dairy, pigs used for breeding, and of course, the layer hens used for their eggs. But it's not just the layer hens that suffer in the egg industry—it's also their mothers.
Egg industry hens are all descended from chickens in a 'parent flock' on a breeder farm. These eggs are produced solely for the purpose of producing fertilized eggs, which are sent to hatcheries. (Note: When urban farmers buy chicks, or fertilized eggs to hatch in homemade incubators, both the chicks and the eggs come from these tormented parent birds.)
"The young parent birds are confined in giant warehouses where they are bred relentlessly for the duration of their short lives. Unable to escape the shed or defend themselves against the roosters, the hens are overmounted, causing crushing injuries, broken bones, severe feather loss, painfully raw vents and distended bellies.
None of these hens will ever get to see any of her babies. Every single one of the 90 billion eggs produced annually in the US originates from a hen who has been denied the freedom to raise her young. Each year, at the end of their first laying cycle, the hens who survive the ordeal of forced insemination, are discarded and replaced with younger 'breeding stock'." (Source)
Inside a breeder farm. Watch the full video here.
The cruelties of the egg industry are not talked about in public beyond battery cages and cage-free campaigns, let alone the breeder farms, or hatcheries. Animal Liberation Victoria's Openrescue team was one of the few that went on an undercover investigation to report on the abuse and neglect of the chickens in a hatchery near Melbourne. They reported:
"We found each shed filled with exhausted, debeaked and debilitated hens suffering severe feather loss mixed together with young virile roosters.
There were no cages, all the birds were tightly packed together on metal flooring.
[...] they kill the older male birds at around 50 weeks of age and replace them with young roosters to further boost the economic productivity of the already exhausted hens."
Clip from an Australian-first investigation on a Specialised Breeders Australia (SBA) Hatchery near Bendigo, Victoria, one of the country's largest egg-layer hatcheries. (by Animal Liberation)
In Canada, the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Hatching Eggs, Breeders, Chickens and Turkeys sets standards for the care and handling of parent flocks. However, these standards fall far short of what any compassionate person would consider acceptable. For example, it also allows for the routine mutilation of birds' beaks, which can cause lifelong pain and suffering.
In the United States, the USDA's National Poultry Improvement Plan sets standards for the care and handling of parent flocks. However, these standards are voluntary and not enforceable by law. As a result, many parent flocks in the US are kept in appalling conditions, with birds suffering from diseases, injuries, and neglect.
Hens, like many other animals, have strong maternal instincts and are natural caregivers who will go to great lengths to protect and care for their offspring. However, in the egg industry, these instincts are ignored, and many female hens never get the chance to experience motherhood. This treatment of hens is not only cruel, but also perpetuates a cycle of exploitation and suffering in the egg industry. By consuming eggs from such systems, we contribute to a scheme that prioritizes profit over compassion and puts these sentient beings at risk.
But there are alternatives. By choosing plant-based options, we can help break this cycle of cruelty and support a more compassionate and just food system. As we celebrate Mother's Day, let's remember that all mothers deserve love, compassion, and respect—whether they are human or non-human animals. Let's work towards a future where all mothers, and all beings, can live free from harm and suffering.
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
What Egg Shortage?
Given the shortage of eggs, high prices and news reports about bird flu, are you feeling frustrated after your last supermarket run?
Image: plantbasednews.org
Given the shortage of eggs, high prices and news reports about bird flu, are you feeling frustrated after your last supermarket run?
Maybe you are thinking of raising backyard chickens as an alternative? Let's consider some plant-based alternatives first.
It makes sense to switch to healthy and cruelty-free options. This allows you to avoid the myriad of issues with backyard eggs and the welfare issues associated with commercial eggs. Many folks have been using plant-based alternatives for years, from aquafaba, flax, and chia seeds in baking to scrambled tofu and plant-based eggs for more traditional egg-centric meals.
It's important to consider what you're trying to achieve with your eggs. Once you've determined that, there are a variety of options:
![how-to-substitute-eggs-in-keto-cooking-[1].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/57cf3049ebbd1a6e5b9f3a74/1677289340363-E2DDCAIJZ8DZP7MRJWEX/how-to-substitute-eggs-in-keto-cooking-%5B1%5D.jpg)
The first are the most budget-friendly options that you probably already have in your cupboard. Aquafaba is the liquid from a can of chickpeas that can be whipped into a foam that resembles egg whites. Flax and chia seeds can also be used as egg substitutes by mixing them with water to form a gel-like consistency. Silken tofu can be blended into a smooth mixture and used in recipes that call for eggs. Lastly, mashed bananas or applesauce can also be used as egg substitutes in recipes that require a binding agent.
For those who want a baking option, established brands like ‘PaneRiso Egg Replacer’, ‘Ener-G Egg Replacer’, or ‘Bob's Red Mill Egg Replacer’ are perfect. These products are not only cruelty-free, but are highly versatile, and can be used in a variety of recipes, from cakes and cookies to savory dishes like quiches and omelettes.
For the demanding chef, or cooks in a hurry who need a truly authentic egg substitute, products like Just Eggs, Simply Eggless, VeganEgg, or Scramblit are a perfect fit. They are ideal for creating a very realistic and satisfying egg-like experience. To replicate the light and airy texture of egg whites, Oggs and Yumgo are great! Their texture and consistency can help achieve fluffy meringues or other recipes calling for airy fillings.
Finally, under “I can't believe these are plant-based” eggs, soy-free, and gluten-free Wonderegg has been praised for its ability to mimic the taste and texture of real eggs so closely that many people can't tell the difference.
Yo-Egg, is a plant-based egg yolk replacement that mimics the taste and texture of real egg yolks, making it perfect for dishes like hollandaise sauce or aioli.
All of these products are part of a rapidly expanding selection of plant-based egg alternatives that are transforming the food industry. With an increasing demand for allergy-friendly and cruelty-free options, these innovative products are enabling both chefs and home cooks to create family-friendly meals and baked goods without compromise.
Note: don't forget to check out our long list of replacements AND our extensive recipe collection, too.
Happy cooking!
Note: Egg-Truth is not sponsored by any of the aforementioned products.
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
Buying chicks is NOT compatible with loving animals
Why keeping backyard chickens as a response to the egg shortage is not the solution to the problem, and why it's crucial to understand the welfare issues in the egg industry instead.
Image: Sarah-Claude Lévesque St-Louis, pexels.com
Recent egg shortages caused by the current avian flu outbreak have led many people to consider keeping backyard chickens as a source of fresh eggs. What we really should be considering are the broader welfare issues in the egg industry. From living conditions that are cramped and unsanitary to the routine mutilation of chickens, such as de-beaking, the egg industry raises serious concerns about how animals are treated.
In this blog post, we'll explore why keeping backyard chickens as a response to the egg shortage is not a solution to the problem, and why it's crucial to understand the welfare issues in the egg industry instead.
The staff of the Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary, a sanctuary for homeless, abused, neglected, slaughter-bound animals, put together what they have seen and experienced when it comes to adopting and breeding animals for our needs. Here is the plea to stop buying chicks for eggs (see below):
READ BEFORE YOU BUY CHICKS!
We’ve all seen the hundreds of memes, heard the grumbling and watched the news reports about the price of eggs. You may get a wild hair and decide backyard chicken keeping is the thing to do, and rush out to go buy some peeping, adorable baby chicks. I get it, my lady friends…it’s like the ultimate peer pressure these days.
But I’m begging you, DON’T DO IT. If you’re here, you probably love animals. After 15 years of chicken rescue, PLEASE hear me out. Buying chicks is NOT compatible with loving animals. It’s just not.
1. It’s expensive.
Before the costs of a coop large enough to offer enrichment and stimulation suitable for intelligent and curious animals, medical care with an avian/exotics vet that can run $4-500 for a single visit with diagnostics, and everything you need to keep truly happy, healthy birds, just the cost of feed alone will be MORE per dozen of eggs when you factor in the months they won’t lay in the winter and the years when they’ll still need care after they lay infrequently or not at all. Why are store eggs cheaper? They can buy feed in huge bulk discounts AND they “depopulate” ie kill the hens when they are 16-18 months old, once they are no longer able to lay daily eggs. Crossing that threshold where you’d kill an animal because you can no longer use them requires you to give up your “animal lover” card for sure.
2. It’s hard work.
Cleaning coops a few times a week, all the dust and caustic bird dander for those of us with allergies, finding a place to toss your used shaving. Poop EVERYWHERE. Dug up lawns and flowerbeds. Twice daily feeding and watering, keeping overgrown nails and beaks trimmed, deworming, mite and lice treatments and trips to the vet take many hours per week that most busy people don’t have. These are living beings and just like your dog or cat, not giving them adequate space, housing, clean facilities and vet care is neglect. Animal lovers don’t neglect animals in their care.
3. Avian flu.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is sweeping the country and killing millions of birds, both pet and wild. Threatened species populations are suffering, and raptors like hawks and eagles are falling out of the sky, dead and dying. It’s even jumped to mammal species, killing bears and big cats in zoos around the country. The more animals we give this disease to spread, like the millions of sudden backyard chickens, the more we help it spread, and in effect are responsible for even more wild animals dying. Animal lovers don’t do things that harm wildlife.
**Not to mention that it CAN be spread to humans in close contact with birds. In the cases around the world where it has spread to poultry workers and those exposed, it has had a more than 50% mortality rate. The more we expose our own species to this disease, the more readily it will adapt to infecting humans. And the only reason we’ve been safe so far is that it can only spread from bird to human. But this is a quickly mutating virus, and when it is able to spread human to human, we will have another pandemic that will be more virulent than Covid. The 1918 influenza likely originated as an avian flu.
4. Predators.
We tend not to notice our city predator wildlife friends, and they usually leave our companion animals alone. But they can’t resist the dinner bell of captive backyard chickens and the often shoddy hobbyist coops and runs from feed stores with the glaring lack of predator protection they offer. We spend thousands of dollars on predator proof housing and runs for each flock, that requires sturdy sheds, an underlayment that prevents digging under fences and a cover of some sort. Every year we receive hundreds of messages from traumatized chicken owners who come out to find gore and devastation in their coops, often one or two injured, very grisly survivors. It’s almost a guarantee that new chicken owners will experience a predator attack. Are you ready for that guilt and heartbreak? Animal lovers don’t keep captive animals to be mutilated.
5. Roosters.
You may be reassured that you’re buying “sexed” chicks, just hens when you purchase baby chicks. It says so right on the sign right? Well, what they DON’T tell you is 10-30% of those chicks have been mis-sexed and about half of buyers end up with a rooster. It becomes agonizing every year as families who live in cities where roosters are banned try to find a home for him where he won’t be killed. It’s so sad to take him away from the hens and people he’s bonded with. And we receive over 3000 of those rooster rehome requests every year, more than we could ever care for. There are a few places that advertise a “gentleman’s club” where you can dump your little boy off with their rooster flocks for a nominal fee like $50. Anyone running a business like this would quickly be over run or go broke trying to feed all these boys, unless they have a way to discard some or neglect them horribly. What actually happens is most will be killed by other more dominant roosters in the flock or fall prey to the many diseases endemic to unquarantined flocks with no medical care offered. And eventually when they grow up, they are sold off cheaply to someone who will home butcher them. We’ve visited a few. It’s obvious what’s going on. It’s far more kind to take your rooster in for HUMANE EUTHANASIA with an avian vet than to leave them stressed, sick and attacked in these places. Animal lovers don’t buy animals they can’t keep.
6. Chick grinding.
Ok, so you bought just 6 hens and you got lucky—all are ACTUALLY hens. But since it was a 50/50 gender split on that hatch, where are their brothers? Egg laying breeds don’t gain weight quickly so it’s not profitable to raise them for food. Instead, all the male chicks are either suffocated in giant plastic bags of thousands of chicks or they are thrown alive into something called a “chick macerator”, basically an industrial grinder for baby chickens. EVERY HATCHERY does this. There are no exceptions. Lots of people who also eat chickens may not be bothered by this, but many find killing day old baby animals abhorrent. I don’t know how we can call ourselves animal lovers and be willing to pay for this to happen, as we do each time we buy a little girl chick.
7. Death in the mail.
All the chicks in those feed stores have been sent in the mail, at a day old, with no food, water or warmth they need. MANY chicks will die en route, and it will be a cold and scary ordeal for these little tiny animals even if they do survive. Every year, we get calls from feed stores asking us to come help the sick and dying babies who’ve arrived who need critical care. Sometimes entire shipments come in deceased. Can you imagine if we did this with puppies and kittens knowing there’s a very good chance they’d die in transit? There is nothing nice about the way we transport baby chickens. Animal lovers don’t put animals in traumatizing and unsafe situations.
8. Needs a mama.
Baby chickens, ducks and turkeys are unique in the bird world because they hatch with the ability to eat on their own, they don’t have to be fed by a mama bird. BUT! That does NOT mean they have no need for a mother. Living without a mother causes constant anxiety for a baby animal whose instinct is telling him that not being near his mother makes him vulnerable to predation. Their mothers are comfort, warmth, love, affection and teach them about how to be chickens. Just because they CAN live without a mother, doesn’t mean it isn’t cruel to force millions of babies to live without her. The few minutes or even hours a day you can spend with your baby chicks isn’t anywhere near sufficient for an animal who would stay at her parents side 24-7 for 6-8 weeks or longer. Hatchery chicks are born in industrial incubators with fake heat, and there’s nothing “natural” about this in the least. This, to me, may be the meanest thing we do to animals on a large scale. The industrialization of the lives of babies is truly monstrous. Animal lovers don’t intentionally take newborns from their mothers.
What to do instead:
If you still feel you NEED chicken companionship, build the Fort Knox of chicken habitats either inside or outside your house (chicken diapers are a thing), make their lives and enrichment a priority, find a great avian vet, be willing to spend money on their care, and ADOPT adult hens DON’T shop.
Sick of egg prices? There are so many plant based egg products on the market these days that cook just like eggs. Find a great tofu scramble recipe. Check out all the easy egg replacements for baking that are far more healthy, like applesauce, bananas, and flax seed.
Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary (US)
We provide sanctuary for abused, neglected, unwanted farm animals and a safe place to share their love and their voice with our human visitors.
Juliane Priesemeister, Executive Director
Juliane worked almost a decade for an international corporation as an information designer. Generating compelling visual stories was her daily deed, but as much as she enjoyed the creative work the big corporation environment left her hungry for substance and impact.
When she started her yoga journey a few years ago the “do no harm” philosophy pushed her to align work with her personal ethics and values. Today she uses her omnibus skill set, including marketing communications, economics, and graphic design, to reveal the truth about the egg industry to consumers.
World Egg Day and the Silent Suffering of Hens
While trying to avoid calling them 'healthy' (which is currently illegal according to FDA) the industry’s marketing team is working hard to present the nutritional composition as a miracle unicorn of affordable foods. Yet, one fact is ignored and left out every year: the suffering of the hens.
Image: Farm Transparency Project
On Friday, October 14, the egg industry praises the “power of the egg” and all its "nutritional, environmental, and societal benefits" during ‘World Egg Day’. Established at Vienna 1996, on the second Friday in October each year they “celebrate the power of the egg”.
While trying to avoid calling them 'healthy' (which is currently illegal according to FDA) the industry’s marketing team is working hard to present the nutritional composition as a miracle unicorn of affordable foods. Yet, one fact is ignored and left out every year: the suffering of the hens.
Whether housed in a cage or free-run system, the life of a hen is a life denied. Female birds are mutilated at a young age and denied their natural behaviours throughout their egg-laying cycle.
For people who actually live with hens, the extensive gaslighting promotion brings out all the frustrations that come with the egg industries' abuse and suffering.
The staff of the Microsanctuary Resource Center and Haidy at Belle and Fleur (Little Cage Fighters) who devote their lives to care for broken hens from various egg farms spoke up to explain why it would be more compassionate to leave eggs off your plate.
“it’s important to see egg consumption in a systemic context”
The staff of the Micro Sanctuary Resource Center shared their thoughts on egg consumption in a comprehensive post on Instagram.
A Note on Egg Consumption
As MRC has most specifically expressed in our second and third core principles, we take a strong stand against any use whatsoever of eggs from residents (along with any other residents’ “byproducts”).
We understand that giving eggs from well-loved residents to humans may seem at first like a better option than if those humans bought eggs from farms. We (vegan or not) are largely conditioned to perceive animal farming in terms of how animals are treated. If animals appear to be treated “well,” then animal welfare can obscure ethics of use. So it’s important to see egg consumption in a systemic context.
First and foremost, eggs are the very thing that will most likely harm and kill hens, no matter where they live, due to the domestication history and selective breeding for dangerously high laying rates in all breeds of chicken. We can’t ignore that the only reason chickens exist is because they were taken from their ancestral habitat and domesticated, millennia of selective breeding turning them into food and/or entertainment for humans. If residents’ eggs are consumed, that perpetuates the role of eggs as food and serves as a continuation of the larger systemic harm that puts chickens into the position of exploited beings who need liberation in the first place.
No matter how someone comes by (buying, breeding, “rescuing”) or treats their chickens, to benefit from the functions that were the causes for (and foci of) their exploitation is to be a part of that exploitation. You cannot separate human consumption of their eggs from the historical system that caused them to be used for food.
Secondly, a key part of the microsanctuary ethos is to treat and represent rescued nonhumans as more than just food sources, to do all we can to sever the link between their bodies and our plates. Even when a backyard chicken reaches a vegan sanctuary, they are not “free.” Both hens and roosters will FOREVER have to deal with the repercussions of domestication, primarily related to alterations to their reproductive systems. Egg consumption serves to maintain eggs as food in human society, and insures chickens will forever be put into situations of harm.
Thirdly, we recognize that human consumption of eggs occurs without the consent of individual hens (they can’t give it) and is thus wrong.
The idea of bodily autonomy, as well as health and safety, should be seriously considered for nonhuman sanctuary residents as well as for humans. Taking or giving away the fruit of someone else’s labor without consent for personal benefit when you don’t need it is not ethical, ever. Doing so when those hens cannot escape the toil and are very likely to suffer and die from it (and their brothers probably did die because they couldn’t do it...) is wrong.
So what to do? Preventative care to stop laying is the safest approach to keeping hens healthy and avoiding eggs all together. Otherwise, all eggs should be fed back to the hens in moderation, and we recommend that any excess be given to wildlife or other nonhuman residents who may need them, composted, or otherwise disposed of.
“I have seen hens from the highest welfare systems in states akin to those from cages.”
Haidy shares her thoughts on eggs and hen keeping based on years of experience with hens and rescue hens.
I feel it would be remiss of me to remain quiet on #worldeggday 🙏
The industry bods are championing the egg and all it stands for.
What an egg can do for YOU
What an egg provides for YOU
How little an egg costs YOU
Do YOU see the problem??
These photos are the gurls who have held MY hand on a journey.
Belle, Fleur, Rockie, Blossom, Fleurie, Daya and Asha are just a snap shot of the teachers who have come my way.
When I started this it was because we wanted to be more self sufficient, to have our own hens. At that point I still ‘used’ animal products. I still thought I was doing the best I could by buying the highest welfare, local produce.
These gurls showed me the true cost of eggs, the true cost to THEM……
What an egg does to THEM
What an egg takes from THEM
What an egg costs THEM
it was when the realisation of that truth hit me I had no choice but to change my mind!
I have seen hens from the highest welfare systems in states akin to those from cages.
The bottom line is my stance has changed from promoting animal welfare to animal rights and therefore I do not and will not hip hoorah world egg day.
An egg is not an innocuous food item.
The industry perpetrates suffering from start to finish by; destroying male chicks by shredding, gassing or crushing, overcrowding, restricting and denying natural behaviours in young hens in rearing barns, roughly handling and transporting hens to laying facilities, breaking any group dynamics that have may have formed in rearing barns, as well as breaking bones as in Asha’s case we suspect, by reducing nutrition through their lay cycle to protect profits thus pushing hens to their limits to continue laying eggs at the expense of their health, which is how they are genetically modified, by killing them at 72 weeks old before their first moult when egg production drops, again to protect the industry profits.Buying eggs means YOU allow the industry to strip, discard, allow to suffer and be unseen….. billions of hens each year.
8 out my 10 ladies are currently implanted because producing eggs generally causes massive problems!!
Please Think 🙏
#saynotoeggs #ethicalchoices #eggtruth #vegan
Micro Sanctuary Resource Center (US)
A platform for small-scale vegan caregivers to learn about many different care topics on many different species, and a place where we can share practical advice, celebrate, and grieve our nonhuman family.
Belle and Fleur (UK)
Haidy at Belle and Fleur (Little Cage Fighters) runs a tight ship with the most loving and luxurious hen home in the UK. She is always happy to chat about hens. She has the experience and access to wonderful vets who have always helped her understand more about her beloved Girls.
Egg-free - Tips and Resources
But how does one switch to an egg-free, maybe, vegan diet now? Here are our favourite resources to help replace eggs in your diet.
During the last three weeks, we shared a lot of content regarding the impact of eating eggs on the environment, your health, and the hens.
But how does one switch to an egg-free, or even, a vegan diet? Below are some of our favourite resources to help replace eggs in your diet. And, if you’d like to support a sanctuary to help rescue more layer hens, check out some of the links at the bottom.
Egg Replacements
It’s never been easier to replace eggs in your favourite recipes. The simple and most accessible ones are likely foods that are already in your pantry or fridge.
Here are the top nine options. Choose the right one by understanding what role eggs play in the recipe. Do they act as a binder for leavening, adding moisture, or adding protein? (For a more detailed explanation on this, check out this great post.)
This egg alternative graphic is provided by Vegan Outreach.
Applesauce (binder, moisture)
Aquafaba (binder)
Baking soda and vinegar (leavening agent)
Bananas (moisture)
Chia seeds (binder)
Firm tofu (protein, moisture)
Flaxseed (binding)
Powdered egg replacer (leavening agent)
Silken tofu (protein, moisture)
Many of you may have heard of a popular, plant-based egg called: JustEgg. It is a real revolution for egg-free cooking! But did you know that it’s just one of many fantastic commercial liquid eggs that have been launched in the past few years? Here is a comprehensive list of delicious cruelty-free products on our “Egg Alternatives” page.
Egg-free Recipes
We would also love to share some of our favourite recipes with you. We have a vast collection (whisked together by the gifted chef Linda) on our blog and even more on our Pinterest page. Happy cooking!
Hen Rescue
Now, if week 3 of our series made you want to help there are several options.
First and foremost check out the website, blogs and podcasts from our partners at Catskill Animal Sanctuary. They are entertaining, informative and let you be part of the saved animals’ lives there.
We also love smaller sanctuaries (called micro sanctuaries) that specialize in rescuing ex-battery hens and struggle to make ends meet. Please have a look at the fantastic work of:
Brown’s Microsanctuary (Canada)
This is run by the wonderful and energetic Temara Brown. A microsanctuary for chickens rescued from industrial and small-scale egg & meat farming abused or neglected pets and backyard butchery.
Belle and Fleur (UK)
Haidy at Belle and Fleur (Little Cage Fighters) runs a tight ship with the most loving and luxurious hen home in the UK. She is always happy to chat about hens. She has the experience and access to wonderful vets who have always helped her understand more about her beloved Girls.
NSW Hen Rescue (Australia)
And, finally, there is NSW Hen Rescue (Australia), founded by Catherine Kelaher. She and her volunteers rescue, rehabilitate and re-home sick, injured, abused and abandoned animals that come into their care. They are 100% volunteer-run and provide the individuals rescued the veterinary care and love they need.
We hope you enjoyed our series. Before we wrap things up we would like to give a big ‘Thank You’ to Sentient Media who allowed us to republish their great newsletter content. We highly recommend the website of this non-profit, journalism organization that seeks to create transparency around the use of animals in our daily lives—from food to companionship to laboratory test subjects.
Make sure to check out our daily posts on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for more information on chickens and the egg industry.
Eggs and Animal Abuse
For the short lives that egg-laying chickens live—usually around 2 years—their lives are stressful. The total number of chickens raised for eggs in Canada is over 25.8 million.
With permission. Originally published by Sentient Media.
For the short lives that egg-laying chickens live—usually around 2 years—their lives are stressful. The total number of chickens raised for eggs in Canada is over 25.8 million.
Canada has over 1,000 egg farms and hens are forced to lay approximately 320 eggs in one year. Eighty-four percent of Canadian egg-laying hens spend their entire lives in cages. Around 66 percent of caged birds are housed in conventional “battery” cages, while the remaining 18 percent are housed in “enriched” slightly larger cages. On average, each hen is given less space than a standard sheet of printed paper.
The use of battery cages is still the most common method of raising egg-laying chickens worldwide. In the countries that are part of the International Egg Commission, which includes Nigeria, the U.S., Brazil, and Germany, about 88.7 percent of hens are kept in battery cages.
The egg production process is started by debeaking the chicks who are just a few hours or a day old. This process is done without any painkillers. Due to the pain, the chicks often are unable to eat or drink water leaving them dehydrated and starving until they heal. As there is not enough space, the hens are not able to move around or expand their wings. Additionally, they are unable to clean themselves and have no option but to sit on their urine and feces.
The male chicks born in the egg industry are regarded as waste and are discarded within hours of being born. It's a standard practice to throw them in the garbage, kill them in gas chambers, or grind them in "Macerators."
The air inside egg farming buildings is full of ammonia which is toxic for the birds and they can suffer respiratory illnesses and even die from the effects. Because the number of hens within factory farms is large, farmers are unable to keep up with the dead birds, so the surviving hens are often forced to live next to other dead hens.
Rather than the 10 to 15 eggs laid naturally in a year by red jungle fowl—the presumed ancestor of today’s domestic chicken—industrially farmed hens have been manipulated to lay more than 300 eggs per year. This is almost 30 times more than the natural amount of eggs produced by one hen.
For a more detailed record of the life of layer-hens, please visit our “Life of a Hen” page.
Please consider taking ‘Petunia’s Pledge’ below and enjoy the free live events organized by Catskill Animal Sanctuary.
Take Petnunia’s Pledge to join an online community and free live classes.