What is the Difference between Conventional Cages, Free-Range and Organic Eggs?

Abstract

Eggs are important source of high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. The egg contains unique and balanced nutrients for people of all ages. Eggs were mostly produced in conventional battery cage systems until the European Union banned the cage systems. According to European regulation, egg production was allowed in enriched cage, non-cage housing systems such as aviaries, free-range and organic systems after 2012. In general, egg shell contamination may be higher in eggs produced in alternative systems. Free-range eggs have a higher risk of contamination with dioxins than barn or cage eggs. The aim of this study is to compare the eggshell microbial contamination and quality of the eggs obtained from different production systems.