January 24 2023
As you will be aware, this winter has seen the worst season for Avian Influenza (AI) in history, with a housing order in place since November to protect all poultry within the UK.
Government vets and officials have decided that free-range hens should be kept inside for a little longer to continue to protect them from the relentless threat of AI. The British Egg Industry Council (BEIC) fully supports the Government’s decision to keep our beloved girls safe.
Egg marketing legislation requires that if free-range hens are housed for more than 16 weeks, those eggs are to be sold as barn eggs. Therefore, from 1st February 2023, all free-range eggs produced in the UK will be labelled as barn eggs.
As required by legislation, some changes will be made to our labelling. As these are free-range hens temporarily housed for their welfare, we along with all free-range producers will continue to use free-range cartons, however, each will be marked with the words ‘Barn Eggs’. In addition, each egg will be marked with a number 2 to signify that it is a barn egg, for example, 2UK54321 which is explained on each carton.
At St. Ewe, the chicken comes first, and she always will, so protecting them against this invisible enemy is our top priority. Our girls are all doing well and are being entertained with lots of chicken-friendly toys and keeping warm during this chilly snap!
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Kindest regards and thank you for your support and understanding.
The St. Ewe Team