New regulations remain unendorsed by the Commission.
In the lead-up to the Easter holiday, a test conducted by Tierschutz Austria revealed that the production methods of colored Easter eggs in major supermarket chains may not prioritise animal welfare as much as consumers might hope.
According to the test results, only one in twelve Easter eggs come from organic production, and a mere 8% of colored Easter eggs are organic. Moreover, approximately 55% of colored Easter eggs come from cage systems, while a third come from free-range farming.
Esther Kronthaler, a biologist and animal welfare policy officer at Tierschutz Austria, explained the findings of the test. She emphasised that while some progress has been made in the wider egg production industry, the current state of animal welfare in the production of colored Easter eggs remains a concern.
"Animal welfare requires transparency and a change in thinking in the entire food production chain," Kronthaler said. She added that consumers who prioritise animal welfare can opt for plant-based, more digestible Easter offerings.
The consumption of eggs in Austria has increased by around 5% in recent years, with approximately 60 million colored Easter eggs produced and sold annually. The test was conducted on Easter eggs offered by major supermarket chains in Vienna, testing eggs from 23 branches.
The test results indicate that animal welfare plays a minor role in Easter egg purchases. This finding is concerning given that the production of eggs in Austria and neighbouring regions sees high levels of consumption and production, leading to intensive farming conditions that often raise animal welfare concerns.
While some major supermarket chains in Austria have begun to offer eggs from more welfare-friendly systems, the test results suggest that consumers may want to consider the origin and production methods of Easter eggs when making their purchases. The prevalence of such standards applying to colored Easter eggs is not well documented, but consumers who prioritise animal welfare can look for certified organic or specifically welfare-labeled eggs.
Despite some advancements in animal welfare considerations in livestock farming, the production of colored Easter eggs in major supermarkets likely reflects the mainstream egg production system, which still faces significant welfare challenges. Enforcement of legal standards remains a challenge in the industry, with investigations in nearby countries uncovering violations such as injured and poorly cared-for chickens.
As the demand for sustainable and ethical products continues to grow, it is hoped that the supermarket chains will take steps to improve the welfare conditions of the hens producing their Easter eggs. In the meantime, consumers can make a difference by choosing products that prioritise animal welfare and supporting the call for transparency in the food production chain.
[1] Austrian poultry and egg industry under scrutiny for animal welfare
[2] Investigations reveal violations in Swiss poultry farms
[3] Austrian supermarket chains offer eggs from more welfare-friendly systems
[4] Future-proof livestock farming discussed at upcoming forums in Austria
[1] "Given the concerns regarding animal welfare in the production of colored Easter eggs, consumers may find it beneficial to prioritize health-and-wellness lifestyle choices, opting for organic and welfare-labeled food-and-drink products during the Easter holiday."
[2] "Moreover, in light of the questionable practices uncovered in Swiss poultry farms, it is imperative for the Austrian science community to conduct further research and advocacy for the improvement of animal welfare conditions in the health-and-wellness sector, particularly in the production of food-and-drink items like Easter eggs."
