Producers call for "realistic approach" to caged-egg phase out as supermarket giant backflips on promise

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has called for a “realistic” approach to egg production, saying all three systems - cage, barn, and free-range - must remain on supermarket shelves to guarantee supply and affordability. 

Heated discussions regarding the ethicality of caged-eggs were reunited at the start of last month, after supermarket giant Coles revealed it has delayed its planned phase-out of caged eggs until at least 2030, citing bird flu related supply issues.

VFF Egg Group president Brian Ahmed told The Country Viewpoint the situation highlighted the risks of relying too heavily on free-range production. 

“The free-range system wasn’t designed for volume production,” Mr Ahmed said. “When we try to produce large volumes in open outdoor systems, we run the risk of disease. It was one of the reasons we got out of free range in the first place.” 

He said farmers supported good animal welfare outcomes but also needed to ensure families could afford eggs.

“Countries that have phased out cage production are now importing eggs from overseas, effectively killing the businesses of local farmers,” Mr Ahmed said. 

Modern caged systems, he added, were far more advanced and ethical than in the past.

“We control the weather, the lighting, and we don’t use antibiotics or chemicals. Ironically, it’s in free-range systems where birds are most exposed to disease and treatments are often required,” he said. 

Mr Ahmed said migratory birds posed ongoing risks this spring, carrying avian influenza into outdoor flocks.

“Biosecurity is much easier to manage in sheds,” he said. “The moment wild birds mix with commercial flocks, that’s where outbreaks begin.” 

He urged supermarkets, governments and industry to work together on a long-term strategy.

“We can’t afford to run short of eggs and leave ourselves exposed to imports where animal welfare standards are lower,” he said.