Cage‐Free, Free‐Range, or Pasture‐Raised? Consumer Preferences for Happy Hens

Abstract

US consumers' increasing concern for farm animal welfare signals a noticeable shift toward more ethical considerations in food choices. This study examines consumer preferences for egg production methods, specifically “cage‐free,” “free‐range,” and “pasture‐raised,” utilizing a choice experiment. Our results found that respondents struggled to differentiate various different animal welfare (AW) labels. it also reveals that the interaction of these labels with specific demographic characteristics may influence consumer perception. This study provides timely insights into consumer understanding of AW labels in egg production, aiding producers, marketers, and policymakers in navigating the evolving landscape of ethical food production.