Ingles Markets will support the industry-wide transition to cage-free hen housing by shifting its own egg sales to cage-free, joining a growing list retailers, restaurants, food manufacturers and egg producers that have announced similar plans.
Under the company's new plan, Ingles' goal is to have 100% of both the shell and liquid eggs it sells come from cage-free hens by 2025.
"Ingles supports the industry's cage-free trajectory, and looks forward to working with our suppliers to achieve a cage-free supply chain," said Ron Freeman, Ingles' Chief Financial Officer. "This shift represents a natural part of Ingles' ongoing work to ensure animals in our supply chain are provided with the 'Five Freedoms' of animal welfare, including the ability to engage in their natural behaviors."
The Humane Society of the United States supports Ingles' move.
"We applaud Ingles for addressing this important animal welfare issue," said Matthew Prescott, senior food policy director for The Humane Society of the United States. "This commitment to offer products that come at a value and align with consumers' values is a positive move for animals and customers alike."
