British Lion egg processors are calling on food manufacturers, retailers, and caterers to reconsider their egg sourcing.
It comes as news that contaminated eggs from Dutch farms have seeped into the UK and research showing strong consumer demand for the use of British eggs in prepared foods.
Prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation after millions of eggs were either withdrawn from sale or blocked in Europe following chemical contamination.
However, according to new research, British consumers want increased transparency from retailers. It also revealed that more than 70% of shoppers expect prepared foods containing eggs to clearly show the eggs’ country of origin on pack.
The independent research, commissioned by British Lion Egg Processors, showed that consumers are increasingly concerned that foreign eggs are being used in the prepared foods they buy.
That concern has grown in the lead up to Brexit, with more than a third of shoppers now more likely to look for ingredients’ country of origin on prepared food products and to purchase foods that specify British ingredients.
The research showed that 40% of shoppers say they would be less likely to support a retailer if they used imported eggs in their products.
Made British
Conversely, 85% would feel reassured if they saw the ‘Made with British Lion eggs’ logo on prepared egg products’ packaging.
The logo is there to ensure eggs are of high quality, safe to eat and British.
Ian Jones, Chairman of British Lion Egg Processors, said: “This is just the latest of a number of food safety issues connected to eggs produced outside of the UK in recent years.
“Consumers clearly want retailers, caterers and food manufacturers to use good quality British ingredients that are produced to high standards of food safety, but in some prepared foods this is not the case.
“As we approach Brexit, shoppers are growing increasingly concerned about the ingredients used in manufactured food and now more than ever want and deserve transparency on food packaging."
"The egg industry believes that this is a great opportunity for retailers to listen to the concerns of their customers and reassure them by specifying the use of British eggs and using the ‘Made with British Lion eggs’ logo on packs.”
