Support for British Eggs Grows as Consumers Demand Transparency

UK egg producers are rallying for increased support from food manufacturers and businesses as concerns rise over “hidden” ingredients in food products. The British Egg Industry Council (BEIC) has launched a manifesto aimed at advocating for the prominence of British eggs in food production.

The Call for Change

The BEIC’s manifesto, presented in a comprehensive 8-page booklet, articulates a clear set of demands:

• End the use of imported eggs in UK-made products
• Prohibit the use of the Union Flag on items containing imported eggs
• Require clear labeling regarding the country of origin for eggs in manufactured products
• Encourage the government to prioritize British eggs in public procurement

Addressing Dual Standards

Mark Williams, chair of the BEIC, emphasizes that dual standards have persisted for far too long in the food industry. “Although retailers display British eggs proudly, when it comes to ingredients for food such as sandwiches and salads, the situation varies significantly,” he explained.

Williams noted that a recent petition, with the support of 50,000 UK consumers, reinforces the desire for British eggs in food products. “An impressive 81% of shoppers want eggs in food items produced in the UK to be sourced locally,” he added.

Why Buy British?

The manifesto outlines several compelling reasons for companies to source British eggs:

• Support Public Health: Data from the UK Health Security Agency indicates that imported egg products were central to salmonella outbreaks from 2015 to 2020.
• Uphold Food Safety Standards: The British Lion Code of Practice ensures high egg safety standards and is subject to independent audits.
• Prioritize Animal Welfare: The British Lion scheme focuses on hen welfare, banning barren battery cages since 2012.
• Maintain Quality Assurance: The Lion Code prohibits eggs from Salmonella-positive flocks, a practice still prevalent in the EU.
• Ensure Traceability: The British Lion scheme tracks products through comprehensive audits, maintaining standards from supply to sale.
• Guarantee Processing Safety: Specific time and temperature controls are mandated for egg processing under the Lion Code.
• Control Feed Quality: Feed used must meet stringent Universal Feed Assurance Scheme (UFAS) standards.
• Protect the Environment: Sourcing British Lion eggs minimizes food miles, thereby reducing carbon footprints.

As demand grows for transparency and safety in the food supply chain, the call for British eggs is set to reshape consumer choices and industry standards.