Italian Grocery Giant Auchan Pledges to End Cages by 2022

As a result of dialogue with Animal Equality, Auchan Italy announced that all its stores and affiliate locations will stop selling eggs produced by hens in cages by 2022. As Auchan is the fifth largest retailer in the country, this decision will reduce the suffering of hundreds of thousands of birds each year. Feather loss and drooping combs are only some of the manifestations of the extreme stress suffered by hens confined in cages. These intelligent animals are forced to stand on a metal wire floor all their lives, and are prevented from engaging in any of their natural behaviors. Auchan’s policy is the latest in a trend by Italy’s retailers to stop selling eggs from caged hens. Previously, Esselunga and Coop made similar commitments. While cage-free doesn’t mean cruelty-free, these are important steps that will improve conditions for animals. Helping hens is easier than you think: simply avoid eggs in your meals!