The threat from battery eggs

By acting responsibly and preparing for the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive, which came into force this week, British egg producers may be at a competitive disadvantage due to other EU countries flouting the new rules.

In Britain, egg producers spent over £400m on ensuring compliance - and the estimated cost of producing ‘enriched’ caged eggs is 8% higher than battery eggs. Normally, we would expect these costs to be passed on to the consumer, but with the threat of ‘illegal’ cheaper eggs entering the market, some UK producers may try to absorb these costs themselves.

The UK government is relying on the food industry to reach a ‘voluntary consensus’ not to sell or use illegally produced products. However, some retailers will continue to stock them to maintain competitive advantage. Brussels has threatened prosecution to the 13 states that have failed to comply but the process is unlikely to bring any immediate respite to UK producers. Hopes will have to remain with the voluntary code and consumers making the right choice.

Siân Wall, DWF LLP associate, regulatory