Kroger chose cages. Now it’s facing a global reckoning.
- In 2016, Kroger pledged to stop selling eggs from caged hens. Six years later, Kroger significantly weakened its policy.
- The company now has no public plan to fully remove cages from its U.S. egg supply.
- Kroger’s policy reversal has sparked protests around the world, including at Kroger’s headquarters in Cincinnati.
- Kroger now stands apart from grocery giants like Target and Ahold Delhaize, both of which recently pledged to stop sourcing eggs from caged hens.
Update May 29, 2026 – A security guard hired by Kroger was caught on camera threatening violence against peaceful protesters during demonstrations outside Kroger headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. The incident occurred as animal advocates gathered to demand the company follow through on its cage-free egg commitment. Animal Equality is calling on Kroger to apologize and investigate the incident.
In 2016, the second-largest grocer in the United States joined a growing list of companies committed to stop selling eggs from caged hens. For years, Kroger reassured the public that it was “on track” toward that goal.
By 2022, Kroger had significantly weakened its commitment, reducing its target from 100% cage-free by the end of 2025 to 70% cage-free by 2030. The company currently has no plans to fully eliminate cages.
This decision leaves up to 40 million hens a year subjected to a life inside a cage where each bird has, on average, an area “no larger than a sheet of paper,” as described by animal welfare experts.
Because of Kroger, millions of hens suffer in cages. They broke their promise to go cage-free by 2025. Animal Equality does not accept animal cruelty, and neither do Kroger’s customers, which is why we will be campaigning against Kroger until its leaders eliminate cages.
—Sharon Nunez
President of Animal Equality
Kroger eggs spark global controversy
Kroger’s decision has led to a campaign by Animal Equality and other animal protection organizations. Demonstrations are planned in cities around the world, including at Kroger’s headquarters in Cincinnati.
Kroger’s top executives have also become the target of public pressure. These decision-makers continue to be influential voices inside major companies like Dell, Calvin Klein and Scotiabank, despite their ties to a practice deemed so cruel it was outlawed in 10 states. Consumers are demanding that these companies remove Kroger leaders from their boards.
Kroger falls behind competitors
Kroger’s position stands out as other companies respond to public concern for animals. Ahold Delhaize, the parent company of Stop & Shop, Giant, Food Lion, and Hannaford, is one of them. The grocery retailer was quickly followed by Target.
Advocates say Kroger now faces a clear choice: follow through on its promise or continue falling behind.
FOSTER COMPASSION
As a mother capable of empathy, a hen will defend her chicks at all costs.
Support a mother’s love by replacing eggs in your meals with plant‑based alternatives.
