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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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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.