Ahold USA to sell only cage-free private label eggs

As part of its responsible retailing efforts, Carlisle, Pa.-based Ahold USA announced that its companies' private label shell eggs will be 100 percent cage-free by 2022.

Ahold USA's retail divisions — Stop & Shop, Giant Food of Landover, Giant Food Stores of Carlisle, Martin's and online grocer Peapod — now offer cage-free, free-range, organic, and traditional egg varieties for its customers.  Approximately 80 percent of all eggs sold among Ahold USA companies are sold as "Own Brands" or private label, the retailer said.

"Animal welfare is a fundamental part of our responsible retailing program," said Marissa Nelson, senior vice president of responsible retailing and healthy living, Ahold USA. "We believe that cage-free environments are a more humane way to treat hens, and we have committed to have all of our private label shell eggs 100% cage-free, subject to available supply."

Ahold USA's responsible retailing program promises customers healthy products and services that are sourced with respect for people, animals and the environment, the retailer added.

"Ahold USA companies are deeply committed to providing customers with great products at great prices from suppliers who share our dedication to the highest standards of animal welfare," Nelson said. "Ahold USA and our retail divisions will continue to work with the most reputable suppliers to source our private label cage-free shell eggs produced with respect for the animal."

More information on Ahold USA's commitment to responsible retailing is available at www.ahold.com/Media/Responsible-retailing.htm.