PART I: INTRODUCTION
Background
Method of Investigation
Philosophy of Approach
PART II: THE UK EGG INDUSTRY
History
Size and Structure
PART III: SYSTEMS OF PRODUCTION IN THE UK
Introduction
Laying cages
Aviaries
Percheries
Deep litter
Modified deep litter
Free range
PART IV: MAIN WELFARE ISSUES
Freedom from hunger and thirst
Feeding and nutrition
Freedom from discomfort
Temperature
Light
Dust and gases
Freedom from pain, injury and disease
Disease
Parasites
Availability of veterinary medicines
Bone weakness and damage
Beak trimming and injurious pecking
Other mutilations
Freedom to express normal behaviour
Space allowances
Group size
Behavioural activities
Nesting
Perching
Using litter
Freedom from fear and distress
Predation
Training
Inspection
PART V: REVIEW OF UK PRODUCTION SYSTEMS
Conventional battery cages
Enriched cages
Alternatives to conventional and enriched cage systems
Nest boxes
Perching space
Feed and water supplies
Flock or colony size
Perchery and aviary systems
Free range systems
PART VI: OTHER IMPORTANT TOPICS
Consumer issues
Environmental issues
PART VII: SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Future aims
Recommendations for early action
Recommendations for longer term action
Recommendations for research and development
Appendix A: The Farm Animal Welfare Council
Appendix B: Those who gave evidence and assistance
Appendix C: Egg production systems visited
Appendix D: EC Egg Marketing Regulations - Annex II (as at June 1997)
Appendix E: The Swedish experience
