LOCOG underlines importance of British eggs

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) is reiterating the importance to all Olympic Games caterers of sourcing egg products from eggs produced in legal systems, following pressure from British Lion eggs and the National Farmers Union (NFU).

LOCOG has already stipulated that all shell eggs used during the Games will be British Lion free range. However, until recently the sourcing requirements for egg products have not been as clear, just suggesting that caterers should use British products where possible.

After detailed briefings from industry representatives, highlighting the continued production of illegal battery cage eggs in some parts of the EU, Lord Sebastian Coe has now confirmed that: "All of our caterers are required to use only British Lion Free Range eggs if in shell, and they have confirmed that they will do so.

"With regards to other egg products, we will be reiterating our expectation of our caterers to source all other egg products from eggs produced in legal systems only. We are confident that, as our caterers are required to use British products where possible, this will help in our fulfilment of our expectation."

Andrew Parker, Chairman of the British Egg Industry Council, said: "We’re delighted that LOCOG is supporting British producers and underlining how important it is that all Olympic Games caterers ensure their eggs and egg products fully comply with the legislation banning barren battery cages."

Peter Kendall, President of the NFU, said: "Following a long period of the industry working together, it’s good to see LOCOG confirm that the criteria of the ground-breaking food vision will be extended to egg products, which will enhance both the customer experience of the Games and the prospect of a sustainable food service legacy following it."