Hens moved indoors but free-range label still allowed
The consumer watchdog has relaxed rules on free-range labelling as egg producers move their hens indoors to prevent the spread of bird flu.
Free-range egg farmers who are moving their hens indoors due to the threat of H5 bird flu can still label and sell their eggs as free-range under an extension of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) pause on enforcement measures. The consumer watchdog has continued its pause on free-range egg labelling enforcement, as some farmers have opted to house their birds indoors to protect them from the virus, as advised by state governments.
Traditionally, eggs can only be labeled as free-range if producers meet specific requirements for hens, including access to the outdoors and a stocking density of no more than 10,000 hens per hectare. However, with bird flu cases rising, the ACCC is allowing farmers to continue using free-range cartons for their products. ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh stated that producers must inform consumers and retailers about the change in circumstances, particularly by communicating with retailers and consumers.
He emphasized that the ACCC acknowledges the enforcement pause may be confusing for both parties and urged free-range producers to make efforts to communicate the situation. In South Australia, where most confirmed H5 cases have been reported, the state's chief veterinary officer, Dr. Skye Fruean, said a mandatory housing order was not yet in place but was being considered.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
