National free-range egg standard needed: NSW Fair Trading

NSW Fair Trading has indicated that a review of current free-range regulations (or lack thereof) is in order.

Following a three-month investigation in response to Choice’s super-complaint on the issue, NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe said the rules for classifying eggs are unclear and open to various interpretations.

“Working with NSW Fair Trading, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is investigating free-range claims and has asked some producers for information on specific production systems, stocking densities, shed and outdoor dimensions and access holes to barns or sheds,” Stowe said.

“NSW Fair Trading has observed examples of egg packaging imagery that seems inconsistent with the production system used and consumer expectations.

“Also NSW Fair Trading found some of the highest-priced free-range eggs actually have some of the highest stocking densities. Ultimately, trying to protect the consumer and their rights is difficult when the ground rules are not clear.

“The potential for customers to suffer detriment due to misleading free-range labelling has been established and NSW Fair Trading understands the ACCC is currently pursuing a number of inquiries relating to free-range egg claims.”

NSW Fair Trading has recommended a national standard be developed under Australian Consumer Law that sets a minimum labelling requirement and a clear definition of ‘free range’ based on stocking densities.

The current voluntary Model Code specifies a maximum of 1500 hens per hectare for free-range eggs, but also permits higher numbers where regular rotational activities are followed. Stock rotation means access to the outdoors and space to move around.