Shopping Guide
Cage-Free Alternatives
There are cage-free alternatives available in most grocery stores across the country. For just a few cents more you’ll be ensuring that hens have space to turn around and stretch their wings. Next time you go grocery shopping look for these labels:
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Free-Run (also known as barn eggs) Hens are allowed to move freely in a barn, usually have access to nest boxes, but no outdoor access. However, this label is not regulated or verified by third-party inspectors, so standards may vary.
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Free-Range Hens are allowed to move freely, usually have access to nest boxes and outdoor access (weather permitting). However, this label is not regulated or verified by third-party inspectors, so standards may vary.
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Canada Organic In order for eggs to be labelled organic they must be certified according to the Organic Products Regulation, which requires hens to move freely, have at least 1667 cm2 of space, outdoor access (weather permitting), organic feed and living conditions that encourage natural behaviour
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BC SPCA certified Based on the five freedoms of animal welfare. All hens must be free-run or free-range, have at least 1100 cm2 of space, nest boxes, perches and bedding material to promote animal well-being.
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Certified Local Sustainable Access to nest boxes, perches, dust baths and fresh air in a cage-free environment is mandatory. Farmers get bonus points for more humane practices (ie; if hens are not beak-trimmed, have more nest boxes, perches and outdoor access). Birds can be transported up to 12 hours from catching to slaughter. Audited.
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