Nestlé Reports Cage-Free Egg Sourcing

By the end of 2024, Nestlé S.A. reported that 74.4% of its purchased eggs globally were sourced from cage-free production systems. The figure represented an increase from the 72.9% cage-free sourcing rate the company disclosed at the end of 2023, reflecting continued progress toward Nestlé’s global animal welfare and responsible sourcing commitments. Nestlé has maintained a long-term policy aimed at transitioning toward cage-free egg sourcing across its worldwide operations. The company works with suppliers, farmers, and industry groups in multiple countries to expand the availability of cage-free egg supplies while aligning procurement practices with its broader sustainability and animal welfare standards. The reported percentages cover shell eggs, liquid eggs, egg products, and ingredients used across Nestlé’s food and beverage portfolio. The company has publicly committed to sourcing 100% cage-free eggs in several markets where supply chains and infrastructure support the transition. Progress rates have varied by region because of differences in agricultural systems, regulatory environments, consumer demand, and supplier readiness. Nestlé noted that collaboration with producers and supply chain partners remained an important factor in increasing cage-free availability at scale. The update formed part of Nestlé’s wider environmental, social, and governance reporting, which also includes targets related to regenerative agriculture, deforestation-free sourcing, climate emissions reductions, and responsible ingredient procurement. Cage-free sourcing has become a major benchmark within the global food industry, with consumer goods companies, restaurant chains, and retailers increasingly publishing annual animal welfare progress data. Why This Moment Matters The increase from 72.9% to 74.4% showed measurable year-over-year movement in Nestlé’s global sourcing practices. It also reflected how multinational food companies are increasingly expected to provide transparent reporting on supply chain standards and animal welfare commitments across international markets.