While many vegetarians will include eggs as part of a vegetarian diet, itâs incredibly important to always choose certified free-range. Battery or Barn Laid eggs should not be an acceptable product, for vegetarians or anyone else.
Chickens are friendly and inquisitive animals, and along with all creatures, deserve freedom from pain, fear, and suffering. Animals raised on a traditional battery farm are subject to horrendous conditions and itâs important to do a little research on the eggs we choose to make certain the hens are kept in true free-range conditions -free from pain, suffering and overcrowding.
As there is no legal definition for the term free-range some products labelled as such may still see hens kept in inhumane or poor condition. Look for those products endorsed by animal groups such as the RSPCA or contact the producer direct to ask about the conditions on their farm.
Itâs also important to consider that nearly all egg producing farms destroy every male chick and past point of lay (older) hens â a practice that may distress some vegetarians.
Undoubtedly the best way to stock a kitchen with free-range eggs is from certified small-scale farmers. And if weâre lucky enough to keep our own chickens or know someone who does, this is even better. Check local farmers markets or health food stores and remember to always ask questions â this is the only way we can make a truly informed choice.
For those who choose to avoid or limit eggs there are egg alternatives such as chia gel which make great egg replacement in baking and cooking. And look out for eggs in processed foods such as mayonnaise, dressings and sauces, as well as bakery goods like cakes, biscuits and desserts.
The eggs in these products are more than likely from battery hens. Look for egg-free alternatives like soy mayonnaise and choose packaged foods carefully, there are some of these products now available that clearly state made from free-range eggs and egg free.