In a landmark decision for hen welfare, South Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to phasing out the smallest chicken cages by 2027 at the latest. This change will effectively phase out eggs labeled with the number ‘4’, i.e., eggs produced by hens confined to battery cages––i.e., cages roughly the size of an A4 sheet of paper. As part of a long-standing plan that has seen several extensions, this decision underscores the country’s ongoing shift towards animal welfare eggs.

The Current Egg Labeling System

Korean eggs are currently labeled with numbers 1 to 4, indicating the conditions in which the hens are kept:

1. Free-range (minimum area 1.1㎡ per hen)
2. Cage-free (minimum area 0.01㎡ per hen)
3. Enriched Cages (minimum area 0.075㎡ per hen)
4. Battery Cages (minimum area 0.05㎡ per hen)

Numbers 1 and 2 are classified as ‘animal welfare eggs,’ while 3 and 4 come from hens kept in more confined conditions.

The Shift Towards Better Welfare

The upcoming law change will increase the minimum space requirement to 0.075㎡ per hen, effectively eliminating the category four eggs. This transition is expected to be complete by September 2027, considering the typical 18-24 month lifecycle of laying hens.

Consumer Trends and Industry Response

The repurchase rate for animal welfare eggs increased from 13.2% in Q1 2023 to 19.0% in Q2 2024.
57% of surveyed consumers expressed willingness to purchase these eggs, with 63% having already done so.

Some farms are considering transitioning to free-range systems rather than merely expanding cage sizes. The government is also increasing support for farms transitioning to animal welfare systems, with maximum support per farm raised to 13.3 billion won.

How Lever Foundation Can Support Food Companies

At Lever Foundation, we recognize the challenges food companies face in transitioning to more humane and sustainable supply chains. Our dedicated Team Leader in Korea, Segyo Oh, can provide expert, localized guidance and support at zero cost to companies looking to make this critical shift.

Lever is committed to helping food companies navigate these changes efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re a producer looking to transition to animal welfare systems or a retailer aiming to source more humane products, Lever Foundation is here to assist you every step of the way.

For more information on how Lever Foundation can support your company’s transition toward better animal welfare in Korea, please contact Segyo Oh via LinkedIn or email. You can also learn more about Lever’s recent work with Accor Korea and Shuttle in their switch to animal welfare eggs.

This work happened because of the support of people like you. Please consider donating today to build a more humane and sustainable protein supply in Asia.