Thai agro-industrial conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Foods (CP Foods) has unveiled plans to double the production of cage-free eggs to ten million to promote ethical food choices in Thailand and its export markets.

The company started cage-free production at its laying hen farm in Saraburi province and is said to be operated under a controlled environment to ensure high biosecurity to prevent possible contamination.

The company claims that its Saraburi hen farm has a low stocking density of seven laying hens per square metre, which is said to be lower than the US and EU standards of up to nine hens per square metre.

The company noted that it follows strict compliance with welfare and antibiotics standards that are in line with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which includes freedom from hunger and thirst; discomfort; pain; injury, and freedom to express normal behaviour.

CP Foods senior vice-president Somkid Wannalukkhee said: “CPF Foods’ laying farms are gradually transitioning towards a cage-free housing system due to our commitment as a responsible food producer.

“The practice will help our hens to live happily without sickness and also improving the quality of our egg products.”

Wannalukkhee further explained that by incorporating these practices, the company ensures that the animals maintain good physical and mental health during their time at the farm, which could minimise the usage of antibiotic treatment for sick livestock.