Achieving Sustainable Production of Eggs Volume 2: Animal Welfare and Sustainability

Abstract

The welfare of laying hens is dependent on the provision of appropriate housing, excellent management, high-quality feed, and prevention and appropriate treatment of diseases. This volume, 'Achieving sustainable production of eggs Volume 2: Animal welfare and sustainability', provides a detailed account of laying hens' nutritional requirements and a practical guide to maintaining their health. The welfare of hens is addressed by examining their welfare standards, identifying and discussing welfare issues affecting free-range laying hens, reviewing the welfare costs and benefits of beak trimming, and investigating the management of laying hen flocks with intact beaks. The sustainability of the egg industry is addressed from two perspectives: waste management in egg production and an assessment of the sustainability of organic egg production.