Published 20/04/2010

Morrisons has announced that it has become the first top four retailer in the UK to switch to 100% British free-range on its own-label eggs.

This week's introduction of 100% British free-range comes nine months earlier than Morrisons had previously forecast and will see millions of laying hens become free-range two years before the EU-wide ban on battery cages comes into force.

The retailer, which currently sells more than 10 million own-label eggs every week, will offer four own-label ranges, all 100% British and free-range, providing even more customers with an ethical choice when purchasing eggs. (Morrisons lowest-priced free-range eggs will be £1.37 for six medium-sized).

Jamie Winter, Trading Manager from Morrisons said; "We have been working towards this goal for some time. As Britain's fourth largest grocer, we have a responsibility to our customers, suppliers and their animals. We are unique in sourcing our food directly from the producers so we are able to introduce and maintain good farm animal welfare into our sourcing policies. We have a dedicated Farm Working Group which liaises with a network of farmer groups to shape our policies and set targets on farm animal welfare."

Rowen West-Henzell of Compassion in World Farming comments; "Morrisons has achieved great strides over the last 12 months. Its move to 100% British free-range on own-label shell eggs demonstrates its commitment to improving animal welfare."

If you wish to congratulate Morrisons on its free-range only policy for own-label shell eggs, you can do so via their website here:

http://www.morrisons.co.uk/Store-Finder/About-customer-services/Contact-Us/