Letter to editor: Canadians have trust in egg farmers and their practices

The author’s biased views mischaracterize a science-based approach to animal welfare and the collaborative work to make sure Canadians continue to have access to a range of high-quality, affordable eggs at various price points.

Across our country, egg farmers are actively phasing out conventional cages and moving to alternative housing systems such as enriched colony, free range, free run and organic production. Transitioning to different systems is an enormous undertaking, something that involves our entire supply chain. This process considers many critical factors including bird health and welfare, economics, food safety, worker health and safety, and the environmental impact of egg production.

No other country could transform an entire agricultural sector this broadly and quickly, all while ensuring no product shortages or oversupply situations. The bottom line is the care and wellbeing of animals are at the heart of what we do. It is no coincidence that Canadians express a high degree of confidence in the animal welfare and food safety standards within our sector. This confidence reflects the trust that Canadians have in egg farmers and their practices.

Roger Pelissero, Egg farmer and Chair of Egg Farmers of Canada