Egg producers and packers will no longer need to change how eggs
are labelled during an outbreak of avian influenza under measures
announced today by the Government (27 August).
Currently, when mandatory housing measures are introduced to
protect birds from the spread of disease, eggs from free-range
birds can only continue to be labelled as ‘free-range' for 16
weeks after the housing order has come into effect - the
existing ‘derogation' period under the Egg Marketing
Standards Regulations. After that period, these eggs must then be
labelled as barn eggs.
In both 2021-22 and 2022-3, the 16-week derogation period was
exceeded by six and seven weeks respectively, which led to
significant costs for industry as egg packaging had to be changed
to comply with legislation.
The amends to existing legislation, which will be introduced
through a Statutory Instrument later this year, will mean that
free-range eggs can continue to be labelled as such throughout
mandatory housing measures.
The move will cut unnecessary red tape and costs for British
producers while also strengthening supply chain and maintaining
consumer confidence.
, Minister for Food
Security and Rural Affairs said:
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.
This Government will restore stability and confidence in the
sector introducing a new deal for farmers to boost rural economic
growth and strengthen food security alongside nature's recovery.
The UK has self-declared freedom from HPAI for Great Britain with
effect from 29 March 2024. There are currently no outbreaks of
HPAI in poultry or other captive birds in the UK. However, HN51
continues to be found in wild birds in Great Britain and across
Europe and keepers should remain vigilant and practice stringent
biosecurity to protect the health and welfare of their
birds.
The proposal to remove this derogation period for England and
Scotland was supported by the majority of
respondents to an eight-week consultation undertaken earlier
this year.
More information can be found on our latest
situation page.
