A pending USDA rule for organic eggs would firm up standards for how laying hens can be treated.
The rule, now in open-comment status, addresses issues including health care, transport, slaughter, and living conditions for organic livestock. It would tighten certain restrictions, such as disallowing enclosed “porches” for laying hens as a means of open-air access. More generally, the new rule sets maximum indoor and outdoor stocking densities, health care practices and slaughter practices.
The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service estimates that the new standards would increase costs for broiler and layer operations by up to $14.6 million per year. Comments are due to the USDA by early October.
