Poultry Producers Rejoice: Free-Range Eggs Back on Sale!
Free-Range Eggs Return After Bird Flu Lockdown
Big news for British poultry farmers! After a brutal year battling the UK’s largest-ever bird flu outbreak, the Chief Veterinary Officer has lifted mandatory housing rules. Birds with outdoor access can now have their eggs labelled as “free-range” again—a crucial win for the British Free Range Egg Producers Association (Bfrepa).
Bfrepa’s chief executive highlights that hens use outdoor ranges to scratch, dust bathe, and forage—key natural behaviours that define free-range and organic egg production.
Biosecurity Still a Must Despite Lifted Restrictions
Don’t pop the champagne just yet. Even though housing orders are lifted in England and Wales, avian flu is still lurking. The Chief Vet warns that strict biosecurity measures must stay in place to stop new outbreaks. Bird keepers must stay sharp and follow all safety protocols to protect flocks.
Bird Flu Risks: Low for Humans, High for Poultry
The UK Health Security Agency reassures the public—the risk of catching bird flu remains very low. But the scale of bird deaths worldwide and the virus jumping into other animals is alarming. The virus is highly contagious and continues to threaten the poultry industry.
Regional Differences: Northern Ireland Bars Outdoor Birds, Scotland Holds Firm
- England and Wales: Housing orders lifted, allowing free-range eggs again.
- Northern Ireland: Birds remain confined under lockdown.
- Scotland: Never implemented bird housing rules, citing insufficient evidence.
