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Nestlé joins General Mills and Mondelēz to source 100% cage-free eggs

07-Nov-2017 - Last updated on 07-Nov-2017 at 11:30 GMT

Nestlé will switch to 100% cage-free eggs in Europe and the US by 2020. Pic: ©GettyImages/Mathisa_s

Nestlé has become the latest CPG company that aims use only cage-free eggs for all of its products globally by 2025, following similar moves made recently by General Mills and Mondelēz.

Nestlé said the plan includes all the directly sourced shell eggs and egg products, such as whole egg powder and liquid, egg white powder and liquid.

“In Europe and the US, we will make this transition by the end of 2020,” the company said. “In some parts of the world, such as Europe, over 40% of our eggs are already from cage-free sources.”

Improving welfare for animals

Nestlé said its purpose is to “enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future ... This includes ensuring decent welfare standards for animals that are reared for the ingredients used in our products."

However, Nestlé acknowledged the challenges of sourcing 100% cage-free eggs in certain regions.

“Switching to cage-free supplies worldwide requires time and investment. We will manage this in a sustainable and cost-effective way during the implementation period, ensuring consumers continue to access affordable high quality foods," it said.