DEFINITION OF
FREE-RANGE

FREE-RANGE EGG PRODUCTION

Free-range egg production is a farming method that allows hens to roam outdoors in addition to being kept in a barn or other indoor facility. In free-range systems, hens have access to an outdoor area during the day, where they can forage, dust bathe, and engage in natural behaviors.

Free-range farms typically provide hens with more space than cage-free or conventional battery cage systems. The outdoor area is often fenced in to protect the hens from predators, and may be planted with grass, shrubs, or trees to provide shade and cover. The indoor facility is equipped with perches, nest boxes, and other enrichments to provide the hens with a comfortable and stimulating environment.

One of the main benefits of free-range egg production is that it allows hens to engage in natural behaviors and live in a more natural environment. The outdoor area provides hens with access to fresh air, sunlight, and a variety of plants and insects to forage on, which can improve their health and well-being. Hens in free-range systems are also able to establish social hierarchies and interact with other birds, which can reduce stress and improve their overall quality of life.

Free-range egg production can also have environmental benefits. Because hens in free-range systems are able to forage outdoors, they may require less feed than hens in conventional battery cage systems. This can reduce the environmental impact of egg production, as less land, water, and other resources are required to grow and transport feed.

Overall, free-range egg production is seen by many as a more humane and sustainable alternative to conventional battery cage systems. As consumers become more aware of animal welfare issues, free-range eggs are becoming increasingly popular and widely available in supermarkets and other food outlets.