European law sets out minimum requirements that must be met for laying hens in order to market eggs as free range. The rules are strict and are enforceable by Egg Marketing Inspectors if egg producers keep 350 or more birds for egg production. The rules balance the duties of egg producers and protect consumer health and confidence in free range status.
Contravention of the rules is serious and can leave egg producers open to prosecution. A recent case brought in the Swansea Crown Court saw a farmer being ordered to pay £84,000 or face 12 months in jail for proceeds of crime and court costs derived from contravening the rules and committing an act of fraud. More information about the case can be found here
Stick to the rules
Stocking density requirements for egg laying units are set out in the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) & (Wales) Regulations 2007. Under EU law, stocking rates for free-range egg producers must not exceed nine hens/sq m when housed. The EU permits external stocking densities of up to 2,500 birds/ha but the Lion code limits external stocking density to 2,000 birds/ha.
