Myth: Eggs are a 'genetically modified' (GM) food
Fact: Eggs are not a 'genetically modified (GM)' food. This includes shell eggs
and eggs used for processed egg products. Only traditional breeding
techniques are used to produce laying hens in the U. S.; neither chickens
nor eggs are modified by genetic engineering. Even when a laying hen eats
genetically engineered feed, any products unique to genetic engineering are
destroyed by the digestive processes of the hen. Scientific research has
confirmed that none of the genetically engineered materials are passed into
the egg.
Myth: Hens are kept in cages so small they can’t even spread their wings.
Fact: CEP standards are based upon science, third party verified and provide sufficient space requirements for each hen based on the breed. These science-based standards have increased the amount of space provided to each hen by nearly 30 percent in the last 10 years.
Myth: Egg producers put hormones in the hen feed.
Fact: Growth hormones are never fed to pullets being grown for egg-laying nor during the egg-laying period. The hens have a high quality, nutritionally balanced diet. The feed is meticulously formulated with the proper nutrients to produce quality eggs and is perfectly balanced with ingredients made up mostly of corn, soybean meal, vitamins and minerals.
Myth: Having so many hens in a closed facility will increase the risk of Avian Influenza.
Fact: Modern farming techniques help prevent the spread of avian influenza. Almost all eggs produced in the U.S. originate from farms with modern cage production systems in housing that protect the flock from contact with migratory birds, predators, and other diseases. Few visitors are allowed in poultry houses to reduce the risk of spreading diseases. Modern cage systems allow for daily inspection and monitoring of hens for diseases, and quick treatment.
Our Colorado egg facilities have extensive bio-security programs that include cleaning and disinfecting of housing and equipment between flock cycles and all transport equipment for moving birds in and out of the houses; careful planning to keep flocks protected from other domestic and wild birds; fully developed and monitored immunization programs to keep flocks healthy; and complete training of all employees concerning bio-security procedures.
Myth: Beak trimming is cruel.
Fact: CEP’s Code of Conduct recommends beak trimming only when necessary to prevent feather pecking and cannibalism and only when carried out by properly trained and monitored personnel. Some of the advantages of beak trimming Browsergames include reduced pecking, reduced feather pulling, reduced cannibalism, better feather condition, less fearfulness, less nervousness, less chronic stress and decreased mortality.
