Egg producer attitudes and expectations regarding the transition to cage-free production: a mixed-methods approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Several cage-free egg mandates and retailer pledge deadlines are set to take effect in January 2026. Yet it is unknown whether producers can transition to cage-free production at a rate commensurate with these goals. This study uses qualitative and quantitative data from 2 U.S. egg producer surveys to evaluate the operational activities of conventional and cage-free facilities, identify market challenges, and assess the expected transition timeline. Across both studies, producers indicated higher fixed and variable costs in cage-free housing systems, with capital and labor being 2 of the central drivers of the cost increase. While several producers are willing to adopt cage-free production, they are hesitant to view the market shift as an opportunity. Among the most commonly cited barriers are limited customer demand, high capital costs, and a contradiction to environmental sustainability and food security efforts. With the current challenges, respondents are skeptical that the industry will meet the January 2026 voluntary pledge deadlines. The results from this study offer a holistic view of the potential ramifications of the cage-free transition on the egg market and can be used to inform marketing strategies and policy discussions.

Keywords

• cage-free
• eggs
• retailer pledges
• legislative deadlines
• production