Cage-free

This term refers to eggs from hens that are not kept in battery cages. Hens are typically housed in open barns or aviaries, allowing them more space to roam, perch, and lay eggs in nests. The term 'cage-free' is a marketing claim and may not indicate specific welfare standards beyond the absence of cages.

Cage-free eggs are used in a wide variety of food products where eggs are a typical ingredient. This includes baked goods like cakes and cookies, breakfast items such as pancakes and waffles, pasta, and mayonnaise. Manufacturers may use this label to appeal to consumers seeking specific animal welfare practices.

The term 'cage-free' relates to animal husbandry practices and does not have direct health implications for the consumer. The nutritional content of cage-free eggs is generally comparable to conventionally produced eggs. Regulatory bodies like the FDA do not specifically regulate the 'cage-free' claim itself, but it falls under general truth-in-labeling regulations. Consumer perceptions of cage-free eggs vary, but scientific evidence does not indicate significant nutritional differences.