[Greens-Media] ACT Greens applaud Woolworths on cage egg policy

[Burmester, Tom]

14th August 2009

ACT Greens applaud Woolworths on cage egg policy

ACT Greens MLA, Caroline Le Couteur, today applauded the decision by Woolworths to change the way it displays cage eggs, a decision in line with legislation introduced by the Greens in April this year.

"It's great to see the big retailers now acknowledging that consumers need clearer information about egg production methods. This move is a direct result of the growing demand for free-range eggs, and customers' frustration at deciphering the mixed messages on the egg cartons," Ms Le Couteur said. 

"The fact that Australia's biggest grocery chain is making this change, as well as phasing out its own cage egg brand, puts more pressure on ACT Labor to support the Greens' Cage Egg legislation.

"Our legislation would require all retailers to display cage eggs separately from other eggs, along with signs that describe the egg production method.  

"During the August sittings I'll be progressing my bill to make this a requirement for all supermarkets in the ACT.  The Greens' legislation would also see cage egg production outlawed in the ACT from 2011.

"Changing the way these eggs are displayed is a first step, but ultimately this outmoded practice has to go. Hens in cage systems live in inhumane conditions, and suffer chronically for their short lives. It's a wrong that we must right, and we want the ACT to start setting the lead in Australia," Ms Le Couteur said.
 
The ACT Greens Cage Egg Bill: http://www.legislation.act.gov.au/ed/db_34441/default.asp 
  
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