Our shell eggs are endorsed with the “United Egg Producers Certified” seal. It’s your assurance that Happy Chicken Farm’s eggs are produced in compliance with United Egg Producers’ Animal Husbandry Guidelines.
The UEP Certified Program addresses the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, ensuring excellent care and quality of life for hens.
· Freedom from Hunger and Thirst
· Freedom from Discomfort Due to the Environment
· Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease
· Freedom to Express Normal Behavior for the Species
· Freedom from Fear and Distress
Our egg farmers have long known that healthy, well-treated “Happy Chickens” not only produce the best eggs but also more of them. We have both an ethical and economic motive to treat our livestock properly. The egg industry’s Animal Welfare Guidelines provide clearly defined best practices in housing, space allowance, production practices and handling and transportation; all to prevent discomfort or distress throughout the hen’s life cycle.
A fully independent Scientific Advisory Committee for Animal Welfare implemented the Animal Welfare Guidelines back in 2002 following an exhaustive two-year study. The committee consisted of US Department of Agriculture officials, university researchers and humane-association members. The guidelines it established have been reviewed and endorsed by both the Food Marketing Institute and the National Council of Chain Restaurants.
The topic of animal welfare can be a volatile with one fringe groups on either side of the issue. Our position is to listen to all sides and consider what is best for our customers over the long term. As more science is available and consumer demands change, we will likewise change our position in the best interests of our customers.