UK (United Kingdom) Eggs

FAQs

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Where does the United Kingdom UK import eggs?

The United Kingdom imports eggs from various countries, primarily from other European Union (EU) nations, due to geographical proximity and established trade agreements. While the UK produces a significant amount of its own eggs, imports help fill supply gaps and meet market demands, particularly for processed egg products.

Here are the key sources of egg imports for the UK:

1. Netherlands

2. France

3. Ireland

4. Poland

5. Germany

6. Spain

7. Non-EU Countries

• Post-Brexit, the UK has been exploring egg imports from non-EU countries, including the United States, Ukraine, and Thailand, particularly for processed egg products. However, imports from non-EU countries are subject to stricter checks and must meet UK food safety and quality standards.

These sources allow the UK to maintain a steady supply of eggs to meet the needs of its population. To Learn more about working with international egg markets contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

What makes eggs in the UK compliant?

Eggs in the UK must comply with strict regulations and standards to ensure they are safe, high-quality, and produced ethically. Compliance is enforced by government agencies such as the Food Standards Agency (FSA), Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), along with industry bodies like the British Lion Scheme. Below are the key factors that make eggs in the UK compliant:

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1. Food Safety Standards

• Salmonella Testing and Control:
  • All eggs sold in the UK must be produced under strict salmonella control programs.
  • The British Lion Code of Practice, which covers 90% of UK egg production, mandates vaccination of hens against salmonella.
• Hygiene Standards:
  • Eggs must be cleaned and stored hygienically to avoid contamination.
  • Farms must follow biosecurity protocols, such as pest control and proper handling of feed and water.
• Traceability:
  • Eggs must be fully traceable to their source, ensuring that any safety issues can be quickly addressed.
  • Each egg is stamped with a code identifying the farm and production method (e.g., organic, free-range, barn, or caged).

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2. Animal Welfare Standards

• Welfare of Laying Hens Directive:
  • The UK follows (and exceeds in some cases) EU legislation on animal welfare, including:
    • Banning traditional battery cages (enforced since 2012) and requiring the use of enriched colony cages or higher-welfare systems (free-range or organic).
• Freedom to Roam for Free-Range Hens:
  • Free-range eggs must come from hens that have continuous daytime access to outdoor areas with sufficient space.
• Organic Standards:
  • Organic eggs must meet even stricter animal welfare criteria, with smaller flock sizes, organic feed, and access to organic pasture.

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3. Production Methods and Labeling

• Mandatory Labeling:
  • All eggs sold in the UK must include clear labeling that specifies:
    1. Production Method: Free-range, organic, barn, or caged (enriched cages).
    2. Country of Origin: To indicate where the eggs were produced.
    3. Best Before Date: Eggs must display a best-before date no later than 28 days from the date of lay.
• Egg Stamping:
  • Every egg is stamped with a code that includes:
    1. Production Method: 0 (organic), 1 (free-range), 2 (barn), 3 (caged).
    2. Country Code: e.g., “UK” for British eggs.
    3. Farm ID: Identifies the specific farm where the egg was produced.

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4. British Lion Scheme

• The British Lion Scheme is a voluntary but widely adopted quality assurance program that ensures eggs meet additional high standards beyond legal requirements. Eggs marked with the British Lion stamp:
  • Come from hens vaccinated against salmonella.
  • Are produced to rigorous food safety and hygiene standards.
  • Are regularly audited for compliance.
• This scheme also covers environmental and sustainability practices.

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5. Environmental and Sustainability Compliance

• Egg producers in the UK are encouraged to follow sustainable practices, such as:
  • Using renewable energy sources where possible.
  • Minimizing carbon emissions from egg production.
  • Proper waste management, including recycling of eggshells and manure.
  • Reducing water usage during production.

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6. Imported Egg Standards

• Imported eggs and egg products must comply with UK food safety and animal welfare standards. After Brexit, imports from the EU continue to dominate, but stricter checks are in place for eggs from non-EU countries to ensure they meet UK regulations.

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7. Storage and Distribution

• Eggs sold in the UK must not be washed or chilled before sale (a practice common in the US). Instead, they are stored and transported at room temperature to maintain their protective cuticle and extend freshness.
• Producers and distributors must follow strict temperature control and hygiene protocols throughout the supply chain.

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8. Organic Certification

• Organic eggs must comply with the UK Organic Certification standards, which are enforced by DEFRA. Requirements include:
  • Hens fed on 100% organic feed with no synthetic additives.
  • Limited flock sizes to ensure better living conditions.
  • Full access to outdoor spaces and organic pasture.

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By adhering to these comprehensive standards, UK eggs are among the safest and most ethically produced in the world. Eggs marked with the British Lion stamp or meeting EU-equivalent standards provide consumers and businesses with confidence in their quality and compliance. Eggs Unlimited is here to help with any compliance and regulation needs. For more information contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com

Which country is the largest supplier of eggs in the UK?

The United Kingdom itself is the largest supplier of eggs to its domestic market, producing the majority of the eggs consumed in the country. Approximately 90% of the eggs consumed in the UK are produced locally, making the UK a largely self-sufficient market when it comes to shell eggs. However, when imports are required to meet additional demand, particularly for processed egg products, the Netherlands is the largest international supplier of eggs and egg products to the UK.

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1. Domestic Production (The UK)

• Local Supply: The UK produces most of its own shell eggs, with over 40 million laying hens across the country. British farms produce eggs in various systems, including free-range, barn, organic, and enriched cage systems.
• Key Players: Major UK egg producers include Noble Foods, Stonegate Farmers, Oaklands Farm Eggs, and Fridays Ltd.
• British Lion Scheme: The majority of UK-produced eggs are certified under the British Lion Code of Practice, which guarantees high food safety and animal welfare standards.

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2. Imports: The Netherlands

When eggs or egg products are imported into the UK, the Netherlands is the largest supplier, especially for processed egg products such as liquid eggs, egg powders, and pasteurized eggs used by the food manufacturing and bakery industries. This is due to:

• Proximity
• Efficient Egg Industry
• Specialized Products

For more information on international wholesale egg suppliers and producers contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com ccurate and up-to-date pricing, contact local wholesale suppliers or egg distributors. Eggs Unlimited can connect you with these sources for bulk purchasing needs: eusales@eggsunlimited.com

Why Does the UK Import Eggs?

Despite being largely self-sufficient in shell eggs, the UK imports eggs and egg products for the following reasons:

1. Processed Egg Products: UK domestic production focuses more on shell eggs, whereas imports help meet demand for liquid egg products, egg whites, and egg powders used in food manufacturing, bakeries, and catering.
2. Seasonal Demand: During peak periods like Easter and Christmas, imports help supplement domestic production.
3. Price Competitiveness: Some imported products, particularly from the Netherlands and Poland, can be more cost-effective than locally produced equivalents.

For more information on importing eggs to the UK contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com

How much do eggs cost in the UK?

As of December 2024, the price of eggs in the UK varies based on factors such as location, egg type, and market conditions. Here’s an overview of the current pricing:

Factors Influencing Egg Prices in UK:

1. Egg Production Costs & Types of Systems:
   • Feed, energy, and labor expenses directly impact pricing.
2. Supply and Demand Dynamics:
   • Seasonal variations and consumer preferences can cause price fluctuations.
3. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Adherence to EU animal welfare and environmental standards may increase production costs.
4. Market Competition:
   • Imports from neighboring countries, particularly the Netherlands, influence domestic pricing structures.

Recent Trends in Egg Prices

• In 2022–2024, the UK experienced significant price increases for eggs due to a combination of factors:
  • Avian Flu Outbreaks: Severe outbreaks reduced flock sizes, limiting supply.
  • Rising Feed and Energy Costs: Feed prices surged after the Ukraine conflict impacted global grain markets, leading to higher production costs.
  • Inflation: General inflationary pressures in the UK economy also contributed to higher prices across food products, including eggs.
• Percentage Increase: Retail prices for eggs reportedly rose by over 20–30% between 2022 and 2024.

Prices can change over time, and regional variations can be significant. To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for eggs in the UK, we recommend contacting wholesale suppliers and egg distributors for bulk purchasing options. Eggs Unlimited can directly put you in touch with these sources eusales@eggsunlimited.com

Common egg carton sizing in the UK

Carton Size

Number of Eggs

Typical Use

Half Dozen

6 eggs

Most commonly sold size for households. Widely available in all egg types (free-range, organic, barn, etc.).

Dozen

12 eggs

Popular size for larger households or frequent egg users. Available in most supermarkets.

15-Pack

15 eggs

Larger size, often for families or budget-conscious buyers. Common in discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl.

18-Pack

18 eggs

Sold less frequently but available at some retailers, often marketed to bulk buyers.

30-Pack (Tray)

30 eggs

Typically sold in trays, often seen in wholesale markets (e.g., Costco) or for professional use (bakeries, catering, etc.).

Eggs in the UK are categorized by weight rather than physical dimensions. Cartons are typically labeled with the egg size, and a single carton may include eggs of a specific size category:

Egg Size	Weight per Egg
Small	Less than 53g
Medium	53g–63g
Large	63g–73g
Extra Large	More than 73g

How many wholesale eggs are in a case or crate?

The number of eggs in a case can vary depending on the type and size of the eggs, as well as the packaging standards of the producer or distributor. The most common case sizes for chicken eggs in the United States are:

• 5-Dozen Case: There are 5 dozen (60 eggs) in a 5-dozen case.
• 10-Dozen Case: While less common, you might also find 10-dozen cases, which contain 120 eggs.
• 15-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 15 dozen or 180 eggs. in a 15-dozen case.
• 30-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 30 dozen or 360 eggs. in a 30-dozen case.

Contact Eggs Unlimited for any egg size or type of case load needed today!! eusales@eggsunlimited.com

How to sell commercial eggs in the UK?

Selling commercial eggs in the UK requires compliance with strict EU regulations, understanding the market, and leveraging distribution channels effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

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1. Understand the UK Egg Market

Before entering the market, understand the key dynamics of the UK egg industry:

• The UK market is largely self-sufficient, producing 90% of the eggs it consumes.
• Eggs are typically categorized by production method (free-range, organic, barn, or colony).
• Demand is highest for free-range and organic eggs due to consumer preferences for ethical and sustainable products.
• Major buyers include supermarkets, foodservice companies, food manufacturers, and wholesalers.

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2. Register with Authorities

You must register with the appropriate UK government bodies before selling eggs:

1. DEFRA Registration:
   • If you are producing eggs, you must register your flock with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) or your local authority if you have more than 50 laying hens.
   • Even if you have fewer than 50 hens, you may still need to register if selling to businesses or labeling the eggs with a farm name.
2. Egg Packing Center Registration:
   • If you plan to grade, pack, or label eggs, you must register as an Egg Packing Centre with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
   • Egg grading ensures eggs are categorized by weight and quality (Class A or Class B).
3. Food Business Registration:
   • If selling eggs to the public or other businesses, register your business with your local council as a food business.
4. Trading Standards:
   • You must comply with trading standards, which regulate weights, labeling, and consumer rights.

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3. Comply with Egg Production and Grading Standards

Eggs sold in the UK must meet specific quality and production standards:

1. Egg Quality Standards:
   • Class A Eggs: Fresh eggs suitable for retail. They must have a clean, intact shell, no visible defects, and no abnormal odors.
   • Class B Eggs: Not suitable for retail; these are used for industrial purposes (e.g., processed egg products).
2. Salmonella Testing:
   • All eggs must come from flocks tested and certified under the UK National Control Programme for Salmonella. Hens are often vaccinated as part of this program.
3. Production Method Requirements:
   • Eggs must be clearly identified as free-range, organic, barn, or colony (enriched cage).
   • Organic eggs must meet additional standards set by UK Organic Certification Bodies, such as Soil Association or OF&G.
4. British Lion Code of Practice (Optional but Recommended):
   • Joining the British Lion Scheme is voluntary but highly recommended for retail and consumer trust. The scheme ensures adherence to stringent food safety and animal welfare standards.

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4. Labeling and Stamping Requirements

Eggs sold commercially must meet strict labeling and stamping regulations:

1. Egg Stamping:
   Every egg must be stamped with a code that identifies:
   • The production method (0 = organic, 1 = free-range, 2 = barn, 3 = caged).
   • The country of origin (e.g., “UK”).
   • The farm identification code, which is linked to where the egg was produced.
2. Example of an egg stamp: 1UK12345
3. Carton Labeling:
   Egg cartons must include:
   • Best-before date (usually 28 days after the laying date).
   • Storage instructions (e.g., “Keep refrigerated after purchase”).
   • Producer’s name and address.
   • Egg grade and weight class (e.g., “Class A, Large Eggs”).
   • Production method (e.g., “Free-Range Eggs”).
   • The number of eggs in the carton.
4. Organic Certification:
   If selling organic eggs, you must display the organic certification body’s logo on the packaging.

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5. Storage and Transportation

Eggs must be stored and transported under proper conditions to maintain quality:

1. Storage:
   • Eggs must be kept clean and dry, at a consistent temperature (ideally below 20°C but not refrigerated until after purchase).
2. Transportation:
   • Eggs should be transported carefully to prevent breakage or contamination.
   • Maintain traceability by keeping records of batch numbers and transport details.

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6. Distribution Channels

Decide where and how you will sell your eggs:

1. Supermarkets:
   • Supermarkets are the largest buyers of eggs in the UK. However, selling to them requires meeting their strict supply and quality standards, such as British Lion certification.
2. Farm Shops and Farmers’ Markets:
   • Smaller-scale producers often sell directly to consumers through farm shops or local markets.
3. Wholesale and Foodservice:
   • Sell in bulk to wholesalers, restaurants, cafes, and foodservice companies. These buyers often purchase ungraded or Class B eggs for industrial use.
4. Direct to Consumer:
   • Sell through your own website, local delivery services, or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

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7. Pricing Strategy

Develop a pricing strategy based on your production costs, target market, and competition. Egg prices vary depending on production methods:

• Free-range and organic eggs command higher prices due to consumer demand for ethical and sustainable products.
• Supermarkets and discount retailers often negotiate lower prices for bulk contracts.

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8. Marketing and Branding

1. Highlight Production Methods:
   Consumers increasingly prefer eggs labeled as free-range, organic, or locally produced.
2. Use Sustainable Packaging:
   Choose recyclable or compostable egg cartons to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
3. Leverage Certifications:
   Promote British Lion accreditation, organic certification, or other schemes to boost consumer trust.
4. Engage with Customers:
   Use social media, farmers’ markets, or local events to build relationships with your audience.

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9. Maintain Compliance and Records

Regularly monitor and update your processes to ensure compliance with regulations. Keep detailed records of:

• Flock health and salmonella testing.
• Egg grading and packaging details.
• Supply chain and traceability documentation.

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10. Stay Updated

The egg market and regulations can change due to factors like Brexit, avian flu outbreaks, or consumer trends. Stay informed about new requirements, industry developments, and market opportunities by:

• Following updates from DEFRA, APHA, and British Egg Industry Council.
• Joining industry bodies such as the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) or British Egg Industry Council (BEIC).

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Selling eggs commercially in the UK market requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, food safety, and the commercial distribution process. It’s advisable to work closely with relevant government agencies and seek expert advice to ensure your commercial egg business operates legally and successfully. Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

EGG CERTIFICATIONS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM (UK)

1. British Lion Code of Practice

The British Lion Scheme is the most widely recognized and trusted egg certification in the UK. Over 90% of UK eggs carry the British Lion mark.

Key Features:

• Salmonella Protection
• Traceability
• Strict Hygiene Standards
• Regular Audits
• British Origin
• Optional for Egg Products

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2. RSPCA Assured (Freedom Food)

The RSPCA Assured certification ensures high animal welfare standards for laying hens.

Key Features:

• High Welfare Standards: Hens must be kept in conditions that allow natural behaviors, including perching, scratching, and dust bathing.
• Production Methods: Covers free-range, barn, and organic systems but excludes caged eggs.
• Independent Inspections: Farms are regularly inspected by the RSPCA to ensure compliance with welfare standards.
• Labeling: Eggs carrying the RSPCA Assured label indicate that hens have been treated humanely.

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3. Organic Certification

Organic eggs are certified by organizations accredited by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), such as:

• Soil Association
• Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G)
• Organic Food Federation (OFF)

Key Features:

• Organic Feed: Hens must be fed 100% organic, non-GMO feed.
• No Routine Antibiotics: The use of antibiotics is prohibited except for treating illness.
• Outdoor Access: Hens must have access to outdoor pasture and are kept in small flock sizes to minimize stress.
• No Pesticides: Organic farms must avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

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4. Free-Range Certification

Although not a specific certification body, free-range eggs are regulated under UK and EU law. To be marketed as free-range, eggs must meet the following criteria:

• Hens must have continuous daytime access to outdoor ranges with vegetation.
• A maximum stocking density of 2,500 birds per hectare is allowed on outdoor ranges.
• Free-range systems must comply with minimum welfare requirements, such as adequate perching, nesting, and scratching areas.

Labeling:

Free-range eggs must be clearly labeled as “free-range” on cartons and stamped with the code “1” (e.g., 1UK12345).

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5. Pasture-Raised Certification (Emerging Trend)

While not widely adopted yet in the UK, pasture-raised eggs are gaining attention. These eggs come from hens raised on open pasture, with even more space than free-range requirements. Some smaller producers market their eggs as “pasture-raised,” although there is no official UK certification for this.

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6. Red Tractor Assurance

The Red Tractor logo certifies that eggs meet UK standards for food safety, animal welfare, and environmental practices.

Key Features:

• Farm-to-Fork Assurance: Ensures traceability throughout the supply chain.
• Animal Welfare Standards: Covers housing, feeding, and veterinary care of laying hens.
• Environmental Standards: Farms must minimize environmental impact through responsible waste and resource management.

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7. Soil Association (Organic Focus)

The Soil Association is the UK’s leading organic certification body and offers one of the most stringent organic certifications.

Key Features:

• Stricter Than EU Organic Standards: The Soil Association’s requirements often exceed basic organic standards, particularly for animal welfare.
• Free-Range by Default: All organic eggs certified by the Soil Association are also free-range.
• Small Flock Sizes: Emphasizes reduced stocking densities to minimize stress and disease among birds.
• Sustainable Farming: Encourages environmentally friendly practices like crop rotation and wildlife conservation.

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8. Fairtrade Certification (Rare for Eggs)

Although not common in the UK egg industry, Fairtrade certification is emerging in some international markets for eggs. It ensures that producers are paid fairly and work under ethical labor conditions.

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9. EU Egg Marketing Standards

Even after Brexit, the UK largely follows the EU Egg Marketing Standards for production and labeling. These standards define:

• Production Method Codes: Stamped on eggs (0 for organic, 1 for free-range, 2 for barn, 3 for caged).
• Grading: Class A eggs (fresh eggs for retail) and Class B eggs (for industrial use).
• Packaging and Storage: Eggs must be clean, unbroken, and stored properly.

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10. Certification for Processed Eggs

For liquid, powdered, or other processed egg products, certifications may include:

• British Lion Code of Practice for Egg Products: Ensures processed eggs meet the same safety standards as Lion-stamped shell eggs.
• ISO Standards: For food safety and quality management (e.g., ISO 22000).
• BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards): For food safety in manufacturing.

For international certification process information and consulting contact us at eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

WHY EGGS UNLIMITED?

Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery. 

We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering promptly. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.

LET’S DISCUSS YOUR United kingdom EGG STRATEGY!

Get in touch with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to discover all your conventional egg options.

Call: 1-888-554-3977

E-mail: eusales@eggsunlimited.com