Defra has confirmed its proposed ban of colony cage systems across the laying hen sector will be brought in by 2032 including for smaller producers.
Enriched colony cage eggs supply just over 20% of the UK shell egg production. These cages contain up to to 80 birds.
Defra said the move is in line with widespread best practice and public opinion.
Farming minister Dame Angela Eagle said: “We are committed to improving the lives of farm animals and to supporting farmers to produce food sustainably, profitably and to the high standards consumers expect.
“British consumers want high animal welfare standards and these measures reflect those values, creating healthier livestock and high welfare food production.”
The proposals will be subject to an eight week consultation, which opens today, and farmers, industry and animal welfare organisations are encouraged to share their views.