The Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced a significant change affecting egg producers and packers: they will no longer be required to alter egg labelling during outbreaks of avian influenza
This new directive addresses the current regulations under the Egg Marketing Standards Regulations, which stipulate that when mandatory housing measures are implemented to safeguard birds from disease spread, eggs from free-range birds can only retain their ‘free-range’ label for a maximum of 16 weeks following the housing order. After this 16-week “derogation” period, these eggs must be relabeled as barn eggs.
Thanks to the amendments to the existing legislation, which will be formally introduced via a Statutory Instrument later this year, free-range eggs will now be permitted to maintain their ‘free-range’ labelling throughout the duration of any mandatory housing measures. This legislative revision simplifies the process for producers and boosts operational efficiency.
Defra emphasized that the decision to eliminate this labelling requirement will effectively “cut unnecessary red tape and costs for British producers while also strengthening supply chains and maintaining consumer confidence.” This change is expected to have a positive impact on the industry’s stability moving forward.
Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, commented, “We understand the pressures facing the egg producing sector and the crippling impact that avian influenza outbreaks can have on their businesses. Removing the need to change labels on eggs and packaging will help them keep costs down and remain competitive.”
He further stated, “This Government will restore stability and confidence in the sector by introducing a new deal for farmers to boost rural economic growth and strengthen food security alongside nature’s recovery.” Such actions reflect a commitment to fostering a resilient agricultural environment.
Currently, Defra has reported that there are no outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in poultry or other captive birds across the UK. However, it is important to note that avian influenza continues to be present in wild birds in Great Britain and throughout Europe. Consequently, Defra advises bird keepers to “remain vigilant” and adhere to “stringent biosecurity” measures to ensure the health and welfare of their flocks.
