Laying Hen Cage System

1. Feed efficiency

• Caged hens expend less energy on movement compared to free-range birds.

• This results in lower feed consumption per egg, meaning less land, water, fertiliser, and energy are needed to grow feed crops.

2. Reduced land use

• Cage housing requires less space per bird.

• This lowers the overall land footprint of egg production compared to free-range systems that need outdoor access.

3. Lower manure emissions

• In cages, manure can be collected and dried more efficiently.

• This reduces ammonia emissions and nitrous oxide (a greenhouse gas) compared to floor-based or deep-litter systems.

4. Improved resource efficiency

• More eggs can be produced per unit of housing, feed, and energy.

• This generally means a lower carbon footprint per egg compared to some cage-free systems.

5. Better egg cleanliness & reduced losses

• Eggs laid in cages are less likely to be soiled, cracked, or wasted.

• This minimizes food waste, which is also an environmental benefit.

6. Controlled waste management

• Manure belts in modern cage systems allow for easy transport and treatment (e.g., composting, biogas, or fertilizer use).

• This reduces uncontrolled nutrient runoff into soil and water.