Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

Heinz champions new animal welfare policies

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

Heniz Company, commonly known as Heinz, famous for its ketchup, has joined a series of food companies pledging to do more to strengthen their animal welfare practices.

The shift in policy, is part of the company’s overall sustainable procurement policy, in particular they plan to work with its suppliers worldwide to alter its purchasing practices as it pertains to housing conditions for laying hens.

The company made a commitment saying that by the end of 2015, 20 percent of the eggs they buy will be from cage free farms in the United States. The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International are behind the new policy. Heinz disclosed that it has been working with the groups to introduce the policy change.

In a carefully crafted release, the company said that while it is not a major user of eggs it has decided to pursue a cage-free purchasing choice to meet its egg supply needs.

“Specifically, in the U.K., we use free-range eggs in Heinz Mayonnaise,” Heinz said in statement. “Across all Heinz businesses, we continue to work with our egg suppliers to review and further understand the options and capabilities in cage-free sourcing going forward.”

But the policy extends beyond eggs. The food processor has also vowed to phase out gestation stalls for pregnant sows among its suppliers for pork products. “The company is currently working with its pork suppliers to understand and document their plans to reduce or end the use of gestational crates,” the company said.


Trending Video

KIOTI RX 7340 Customization | An Updated Overview

Video: KIOTI RX 7340 Customization | An Updated Overview

KIOTI Tractor Specialist Neal Darby takes you through an updated overview of the impressive RX7340. Packed with new upgrades and enhanced features, the RX7340 is the perfect example of a powerful, reliable tractor that can tackle any job on your property. With its 73 horsepower capability, this tractor is designed to handle even the toughest tasks, from landscaping to heavy-duty work. Watch as Neal walks you through the key improvements that make the RX7340 stand out and why it’s the ideal choice for those looking for versatility, performance, and durability.