The British Lion Quality Code of Practice prohibits the use of intensive systems such as the combi system, which are deemed too intensive. It includes measures such as maximum stocking density of 16.5 birds per m2, two enrichments per 1,000 birds, a maximum colony size of 6,000 birds and superior nest boxes to encourage nesting.
Andrew Joret, chairman of the British Egg Industry Council, said: “We are delighted to have had such a constructive dialogue with CIWF which has allowed us to create a mutually-agreed standard for Lion barn eggs moving forward.
“The standards that we have agreed are much higher than those being used across Europe and around the world. This will give consumers and the industry reassurance that animal welfare is a top priority within the rigorous British Lion scheme which produces the safest eggs in the world."
The barn system enables hens to move freely in comparison to battery farming. The new standards for barn egg production aims to deliver better welfare for laying hens and to create a level playing field for UK producers converting out of cages before the 2025 deadline.
Tracey Jones, Compassion’s director of food business, added: “This is a huge step forward for laying hen welfare. Whilst we strongly advocate free-range systems for laying hens we realise that for the value egg market barn may be a popular option, especially for producers converting out of caged production.
"The Lion standard provides an opportunity to deliver the welfare benefits expected from barn systems and food companies now need to get behind the Lion scheme as part of their cage free transitions, supporting producers with long term contracts and trading security.
“We also need government support for this new standard to ensure that any imports meet these new requirements for barn eggs, reducing the threat of lower welfare products undermining UK producers. We look forward to continuing our close working relationship with the BEIC to ensure that the UK continues to invest in a better future for laying hens.”