Free-range eggs introduced to schools
Warwickshire County Council is supporting the introduction of cage-free eggs into schools and other county council establishments.
Warwickshire County Caterers – the in-house catering division of the county council – introduced free-range eggs into all its operations from November 17, which coincided with the new winter menus in primary and special schools.
This move follows efforts by Cllr John Whitehouse - who has actively commended the use of free-range eggs to County Caterers - and through campaigning on behalf of the community from Kenilworth resident Mrs Pat Murchison.
Cllr Whitehouse said: “I’m delighted that County Caterers have decided to switch completely to free-range eggs. It’s important that public bodies give a lead on ethical questions of animal welfare, and in addition free-range eggs are the healthier option as well – for our school children and for all of us.
Mrs Murchison added: “I am delighted that Warwickshire County Council will soon be using free-range eggs in their schools and catering facilities. The council should be congratulated on its decision that will help to free many hens from the misery of battery cages while also helping free-range egg producers.”
Sandra Russell, Head of Catering, said that following on-going media coverage about the welfare of battery hens, the caterers are pleased to be able to meet the aspirations of our community and interest from customers by using free range eggs.
Cllr Cockburn, the council’s Portfolio Holder for resources, said: “The EU will be banning eggs produced from hens kept in battery cages from 2012, something I feel is long overdue, and so I welcome this initiative.”