SAINSBURY'S SIGNALS SEA CHANGE FOR UK BIG FOUR

Sainsbury's, the UK's third biggest retailer has received a CIWF Good Egg Award for its new commitment to go cage-free on all shell eggs sold in store by 2012.

In doing so it leaves behind Tesco, ASDA and Morrisons and becomes the first of the big four UK retailers to go in a more ethical directon on eggs.

Sainsbury's Trading Director, Mike Coupe, said: 'I am delighted to confirm that Sainsbury's are firmly committed to phasing out all caged shell eggs prior to the EU legislative deadline of 2012, and as such we are working closely with our suppliers to achieve a sustainable non-cage supply base for the future.'

The well-known supermarket has acted on consumer demand for cage-free eggs and scientific evidence showing cages are bad for laying hen welfare.

'We're thrilled that Sainsbury's has taken the opportunity of the Good Eggs initiative to make this commitment', said Rowen West-Henzell, CIWF Food Policy Officer.

'Its move signals a sea change in policy on shell eggs for all the top retailers and demonstrates it's serious about ethical responsibility and about responding to its customers concerns.'

Click here for more information about the Good Egg Award winner Sainsbury's.