Free range vs pasture raised vs cage-free – what’s the difference between these types of eggs? Find out how to choose the best eggs and what certified humane eggs are.
Determining which type of eggs is the most ethical can be challenging, as it depends on a variety of factors, including the conditions in which the hens are raised and the practices of the producers.
Pasture raised eggs come from hens that are allowed to roam freely outdoors on a pasture. They have plenty of space to move around, and they can eat a natural diet of grass, insects, and other plants.
USDA free range eggs come from hens that are allowed to roam freely outdoors in a fenced area. This means they have more space and access to natural sunlight and fresh air than hens that are kept in cages and those labeled cage free.
Cage-free eggs come from hens that are not kept in cages. Instead, they are typically housed in a large barn that provides more space and movement than a traditional cage.