URGENT UPDATE: Costumed protesters rallied outside Food Lion’s headquarters in Salisbury, North Carolina, on October 26, 2023, demanding better conditions for egg-laying hens. The group, led by the Humane League, is protesting against the company’s use of “battery cages” that confine hens to a space no larger than a sheet of paper.
The protest comes in response to Ahold Delhaize’s recent decision to push back its target for 100% cage-free eggs from 2025 to 2032. Organizers argue that this delay undermines the company’s commitment to animal welfare and consumer trust. “We are here to keep them accountable to their promise,” stated an organizer known only as Jones, emphasizing the urgent need for change in food production practices.
Protesters have been active for the past two weeks and are committed to continuing their demonstrations in the coming weeks. Dressed in Halloween costumes to symbolize the “real villains” of animal cruelty, the group chanted phrases like “free the chickens” and carried signs demanding an end to cage confinement. This creative approach aims to draw attention to the plight of millions of hens affected by such practices.
In a statement responding to the demonstrations, Christy Phillips-Brown, Vice President of Communications at Ahold Delhaize, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transitioning to cage-free eggs. “We are making steady progress in our transition to cage-free eggs. Today, 100% of our stores offer cage-free egg options for customers, and more than 65% of our assortment of eggs is cage-free,” she said.
Despite the company’s assurances, protesters remain unconvinced. They argue that the delay raises significant questions about the integrity of Food Lion’s commitments to animal welfare. “This should be a point of pride for Salisbury,” Jones added. “But this is just so embarrassing and raises questions of trust.”
The protests are not limited to Salisbury; similar demonstrations have occurred in Massachusetts and even the Netherlands, highlighting the international nature of the campaign for humane treatment of animals in food production.
As the situation develops, observers are urged to consider the implications for both consumer choices and corporate accountability in the food industry. The Humane League plans to keep the pressure on Ahold Delhaize, ensuring that the call for more humane treatment of animals remains at the forefront.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent issue as protests continue and the dialogue around animal welfare evolves.
