Morrisons has launched a new range of eggs called Chuckle Eggs, which pay producers an extra 1p per egg. It is part of the retailer’s initiative called For Farmers, which pays famers more for their products.
Morrisons said the extra money would mean farmers can create more biodiverse farmland for their hens. Its aim is for hens to roam during daylight hours in fields planted with 20% trees.
Sophie Throup, Head of Agriculture at Morrisons said: “Improving animal welfare and looking after our farmed and natural environment is important for us and our customers. By giving back to our egg farmers, they can create the highest welfare outside and indoor conditions for their hens. Planting woodland, pollen and nectar rich habitats will also bring huge and wider benefits to our countryside, and support sustainable food production into the future.”
Mark Williams, CEO at The British Egg Industry Council, said: “We applaud Morrisons for this move. We believe it is very important to encourage free-range hens to go outside and fully explore the range around the hen house. That’s why the British Lion Scheme actively encourages farmers to plant trees that give a natural canopy for the hens, helping the birds to feel protected, alongside activities that encourage the birds to come outside and enjoy the natural environment.”
A 12 pack of Morrisons For Farmers medium ‘Chuckle Eggs’ are available in 491 Morrisons stores and online from this week costing £1.99. Twelve pence from every pack will go back to the farmers who produced the eggs.
All of Morrisons fresh eggs are free-range, sourced from 44 free-range egg farms country-wide. 1.5million free-range birds will be laying medium eggs for Morrisons For Farmers ‘Chuckle Egg’ range.
Morrisons launched its range of For Farmers products in October 2015, and became the first supermarket to give part of the retail price directly back to farmers. The range now includes milk, cream, cheese, butter and eggs. To date, the For Farmers range has given back £17m directly to British farmers.
