Last updated on December 30th, 2015 at 02:49 pm
Subway has become the latest to commit to serve only eggs from cage-free layer hens across its 30,000 North American locations by 2025, a transition that has already begun in select U.S. and Canadian markets.
On Dec. 22, Nestlé said it would transition to using only cage-free eggs in all of its U.S. food products within the next five years. The pledge to use exclusively cage-free eggs in the U.S. by 2020 builds on the company’s commitment on farm animal welfare, which was launched in 2012 and strengthened in 2014.
Subway and Nestlé join other companies, including Dunkin’ Donuts, McDonald’s, Taco Bell and General Mills, in moving toward using cage-free eggs.
“Serving food that reflects our commitment to the humane treatment of animals has long been a priority to our brand,” said Elizabeth Stewart, Subway’s director of corporate social responsibility. “We know how important it is for consumers to feel confident that the food they eat is ethically sourced, and our customers care deeply about animal welfare.”
Subway’s decision follows other menu and ingredient improvements announced over the past year, including the decision to remove all artificial colors, flavors and preservatives from North American menu items by 2017 and its plan to serve only antibiotic-free proteins in U.S. restaurants by 2025.
