Published 23/06/2014

Banned in the EU since 1st January 2012, barren battery cages restrict a hen’s movement to the extent that she cannot even spread her wings.

The ban was agreed in 1999, so there is no excuse for farmers not to have been compliant when it came into force at the beginning of 2012.

Greece remains the only country of the EU 28 that continues to blatantly flout the law, over two years later. This gives it an unfair advantage over the rest of the EU. There is the potential for Greek egg products to be sold at a lower price in other member states – despite the illegality.

Peter Stevenson, Compassion’s Chief Policy Advisor says: "This is an utter disgrace. It is unfair on British farmers and others within the EU, who have invested heavily in complying with the ban if they have to compete with illegally produced eggs in Greece." 

Olga Kikou, Compassion’s European Affairs Manager, says: “While I was disheartened to see this footage, I wasn’t surprised. Greece should not be allowed to get away with this when the rest of the EU 28 have managed to discard barren battery cages. They are cruel and unnecessary – but not only is this form of farming inhumane, it’s illegal – and it’s important not to forget that.

“I urge the European Commission to ensure that the barren battery cage ban is enforced throughout Europe and at the moment, I would suggest we boycott eggs and egg products, that have been produced in Greece – unless there is proof that it is farmed to a higher welfare standard.”

Take action

Please urge the Greek Government to enforce the battery cage ban.