Reminder of Key Marketing and Welfare Requirements for Eggs and Laying Hens
Date published:
Following the recent lifting of avian influenza restrictions, DAERA has today provided guidance to the industry of its statutory obligations, particularly in relation to free range egg production.
EU Egg Marketing Regulations remain directly applicable under the Windsor Framework, and the Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations continue to apply. In particular, following the removal of the Veterinary Housing Order, producers must carefully consider the requirement for birds to have direct access to the range as they readjust to outdoor conditions.
“Direct” access to range requires that from the popholes hens can see and easily access an open-air run that is mainly covered with vegetation and provides appropriate overhead cover.
Care should be taken to avoid structures or surfaces that may hinder birds’ ability or willingness to access any part of the range.
Evidence of compliance includes birds exhibiting normal behaviour and actively accessing and dispersing throughout the range area.
DAERA recognises that, particularly where units have been converted to free range production, access to the required range area may be restricted by roads, lanes or waterways.
Where roads or lanes must be crossed, the construction of tunnels, underpasses or overpasses for the hens will be needed. These should be carefully designed, taking account of height, width, drainage and light penetration, to encourage (rather than impede) the hens’ natural ranging behaviour.
Producers intending to commence table egg production or make changes to an existing egg laying establishment must apply to DAERA’s Egg Marketing Inspectorate at least one month in advance of placing hens or implementing any changes. This ensures sufficient time for necessary process.
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