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Supermarket to phase out the sale of caged eggs
eggs
The supermarket’s decision is a response to increasing customer awareness of animal welfare issues.
NFU concerned by Aldi’s caged eggs plan

Aldi UK have confirmed that by 2025 they plan to no longer sell eggs from caged hens. Following a recent statement of similar intent by Aldi Australia, the supermarket’s plans have sparked concerns for poultry farmers.

A spokesperson for the NFU said: “The NFU welcomes Aldi UK’s commitment to consult with their suppliers on how they deliver this ambition as it is vital that UK producers have sufficient time and can afford to meet this change.”

The supermarket’s decision is a response to increasing customer awareness of animal welfare issues and demand for free range products. However, the NFU voiced concerns about recent strategies and investments of £400 million to improve caged hen conditions may well be being overlooked.

Oliver King, Aldi UK corporate managing director told Farmers Weekly: “We know that animal welfare is an important consideration for our customers and we are committed to continuously improving sourcing practices across our supply chain.”

The supermarket also acknowledged the need to give farmers sufficient time to adjust to the transition. Mr King continued: “Meaningful commitments such as these can take time to plan and implement. The timeframe ensures that we can continue to work collaboratively with suppliers to minimise the impact on their business.”

The NFU will continue discussions with Aldi UK on the issue.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.