Decision on the implementation of the novel regulations has yet to be sanctioned by the Commission.
In the lead-up to the Easter holiday, a spotlight has been shone on the farming methods of colored Easter eggs sold in major supermarket chains in Vienna. Tierschutz Austria, an animal welfare organisation, has conducted tests on eggs from 23 branches of these chains, revealing some concerning findings.
According to the tests, only one in twelve Easter eggs comes from organic production, while around 60 million colored Easter eggs are sold annually in Austria. This means that the majority of Easter eggs may not meet strict standards for animal welfare.
The tests also revealed that approximately a third of the Easter eggs offered come from free-range farming, while a staggering 55% come from caged farming. This leaves only 8% of the colored Easter eggs as organic.
Tierschutz Austria's biologist and animal welfare political representative, Esther Kronthaler, explained that animal welfare often plays a minor role in Easter egg purchases. She emphasised that conscious choices in the supermarket can lead to a change in thinking in the entire food production.
The organisation's findings suggest that consumers should be mindful of the farming methods associated with the Easter eggs they purchase. Choosing organic eggs contributes to better keeping conditions for animals, and more and more people are making this conscious choice.
The demand for sustainably produced eggs, focusing on animal welfare and environmental protection, is growing globally and in Europe. This trend inclines the market towards organic and free-range eggs over caged systems. However, specific data on the proportion of Easter eggs sold in Austrian supermarkets that come from organic, free-range, or caged farming is not readily available.
Austria is known for its strong emphasis on high-quality and sustainable agricultural products. This suggests a significant market presence for organic and free-range products, but no exact percentages are given. To obtain exact figures, one would need to consult Austrian retail market studies, agricultural or food quality regulatory bodies, or supermarket sales data specific to the Easter egg segment.
As more people opt for a plant-based diet, in part for animal welfare reasons, plant-based, more digestible offers can be a conscious choice for a more animal-friendly Easter. The upcoming Easter holiday has prompted Tierschutz Austria to raise awareness about the welfare of animals in the production of colored eggs sold in major supermarket chains in Vienna.
