Woolworths is a WINNER!

This is the statement from Woolworths: (If they can do it - all the others can too?)
All our eggs are laid by hens that are not kept in cages

In 2004, we were the first and are still the only South African retailer to declare the following statement: we only sell eggs laid by hens that are not kept in cages. (barn eggs and free range eggs).

In October 2006, we will only be selling eggs that come from free range hens NOT barns hens. (free range eggs only).

The Woolworths animal welfare policy adheres to the 5 freedoms internationally accepted as the basis for the ethical and humane treatment of animals. These are:

• Freedom from fear and distress
• Freedom from hunger and thirst
• Freedom from discomfort
• Freedom from pain, injury and disease
• Freedom to express normal behaviour

Woolworths free-range eggs are laid by hens that roam freely outdoors in the day and snuggle up in their barn at night. They are fed a vegetarian diet of grains and pulses with no animal by-products or fishmeal. The diet of the omega-3 free range chickens is enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and organic selenium. Omega-3 fatty acids are not naturally produced by the human body so it's essential for us to include them as part of balanced diet. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that also protects the omega-3 fats. Selenium is vital to the neutral "detox" process in the body and acts as an anti-oxidant which neutralises harmful free radicals. Organic free range eggs are produced in conditions audited by Ecocert, international monitoring body, to ensure that international organic farming practices are followed. These hens feed freely on an organically certified wheat-based vegetarian diet that contains no animal by-products or fishmeal. The yolks of the organics eggs are naturally paler due to the wheat�based diet.

The Woolworths Difference is evident in its supply of selected, unsoiled Grade 1 eggs that have been freshly laid in nesting boxes. Each egg (except omega-3 and organic eggs) carries its own sell-by date on the shell in food grade ink. This is your guarantee of quality, traceability and optimum freshness.

Egg Facts (can be used - did you know):

• Eggs contain lots of nutrients including all essential amino (the building blocks protein).
• Eggs contain choline, an essential nutrient that plays an important role in the brain function and may contribute to brain development in the foetus and the newborn, and may also play a role in memory function throughout our lives.

Woolworths get double thumbs up!