Western Europe Eggs

FAQs

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Where does Western Europe import eggs?

Western Europe imports eggs from several key regions based on price competitiveness, supply availability, and trade agreements. 

What nations are part of Western Europe?

• Austria: Capital is Vienna, and is known for its cultural activities
• Belgium: Capital is Brussels
• France: Capital is Paris
• Germany: Capital is Berlin
• Liechtenstein: Capital is Valduz
• Luxembourg: Capital is Luxembourg City, and has one of the highest GDP per capita in Europe
• Monaco: Capital is Monte Carlo
• Netherlands: Capital is Amsterdam
• Switzerland: Capital is Bern

Here’s a breakdown of where eggs are imported from:

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1. Intra-European Union (EU) Trade

Western European countries primarily source eggs from within the EU due to harmonized regulations and easier trade logistics. Major suppliers include:

A. Netherlands 🇳🇱 (Largest Exporter in Europe)

• Supplies shell eggs and processed eggs (liquid, powdered) to Germany, France, Belgium, and the UK.
• Strong in free-range and organic eggs.

B. Poland 🇵🇱 (Growing Exporter)

• Competitive on price, exporting cheap cage and barn eggs to Germany, France, and Spain.
• Major supplier of egg products (liquid & powder) for food manufacturers.

C. Spain 🇪🇸

• Supplies eggs to France, Portugal, and Italy.
• Has strong organic and cage-free production.

D. Germany 🇩🇪 & France 🇫🇷

• Export high-quality, free-range, and organic eggs to neighboring Western European markets.

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2. Non-EU Suppliers (Import Sources Outside Europe)

When supply is tight or prices are high in the EU, Western European countries import eggs from:

A. Ukraine 🇺🇦 (Growing Exporter to the EU)

• Large producer of cheap eggs due to lower production costs.
• Supplies Germany, Netherlands, and Spain with egg products and shell eggs.
• Recently granted duty-free access to the EU market.

B. United States 🇺🇸

• Supplies egg powder and liquid eggs to France, Germany, and the UK.
• Competitive in processed egg exports during shortages in Europe.

C. Turkey 🇹🇷

• Supplies shell eggs and egg products to Western Europe, especially during avian flu outbreaks in the EU.
• Flexible supplier for Germany and the Netherlands.

D. India 🇮🇳

• Supplies egg powder for the bakery and food manufacturing industry in Europe.

These sources allow Western Europe 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.

Why Does Western Europe Import Eggs?

• Supply shortages (e.g., avian flu outbreaks in the EU).
• High domestic costs (feed, labor, and energy prices).
• Demand for processed eggs (food manufacturers look for competitive pricing).
• Retail demand for organic and cage-free eggs (not all EU producers can meet the rising demand).

What makes eggs in Western Europe compliant?

Eggs sold in Western Europe must meet strict European Union (EU) regulations and national food safety laws to ensure quality, traceability, and consumer safety. Compliance is overseen by national food safety authorities in each country, operating under EU-wide standards.

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1. EU Food Safety Regulations for Eggs

Western European countries follow EU Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, which sets hygiene rules for food of animal origin, including eggs.

A. Salmonella Control and Biosecurity

• Farms must comply with EU Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003, which mandates Salmonella testing and prevention measures.
• Poultry farms must follow biosecurity protocols to prevent contamination.
• Only eggs from Salmonella-free flocks can be sold as Class A (fresh eggs).

B. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)

• Egg producers and processors must implement HACCP systems to ensure food safety at all production stages.
• Applies to egg grading, storage, transport, and processing facilities.

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2. Egg Classification and Labeling Rules

Eggs in Western Europe must comply with EU Regulation (EC) No 1308/2013, which defines egg grading, labeling, and traceability requirements.

A. Egg Quality Classification

• Class A (Fresh Eggs) – Sold for direct consumption, must have an intact shell, firm yolk, and clear egg white.
• Class B (Industrial Use Eggs) – Used in processed food production (liquid, powdered, or frozen eggs).

B. Egg Size Categories

• XL (Very Large): 73g and above
• L (Large): 63–72g
• M (Medium): 53–62g
• S (Small): Below 53g

C. Egg Stamping and Traceability Requirements

Each egg must be stamped with a producer code that provides information about:

1. Production method (0 = organic, 1 = free-range, 2 = barn, 3 = caged).
2. Country of origin (e.g., FR for France, DE for Germany).
3. Farm identification number to ensure full traceability.

D. Packaging and Labeling

Egg cartons must include:

• Producer’s name and address
• Best-before date
• Storage instructions
• Production method (organic, free-range, barn, or caged)

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3. Additional Certifications for Specialty Eggs

A. Organic Certification (EU Organic Label)

• Farms must follow EU Regulation (EC) No 848/2018, which defines organic farming standards.
• Hens must be raised in free-range conditions and fed organic-certified feed without synthetic chemicals or antibiotics.
• Organic eggs must display the EU organic leaf logo along with the certifying body code.

B. Animal Welfare and Sustainability Certifications

• Certified Humane or EU Animal Welfare Standards apply to free-range and cage-free egg production.
• Labels such as “RSPCA Assured” (UK), “Beter Leven” (Netherlands), and “Neuland” (Germany) indicate higher animal welfare standards.
• Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade Certifications ensure sustainable and ethical egg production.

C. Halal and Kosher Certifications

• Some egg producers obtain Halal certification for exports to Muslim-majority countries.
• Kosher certification is required for eggs sold in Jewish food markets.

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4. Requirements for Imported Eggs

Eggs imported into Western Europe must comply with EU Regulation (EC) No 589/2008 and Regulation (EC) No 798/2008.

• Eggs must come from EU-approved countries that follow equivalent food safety standards.
• Imported eggs require an International Veterinary Health Certificate confirming they are Salmonella-free.
• Customs authorities conduct random inspections to verify compliance with EU hygiene and traceability regulations.

By adhering to these standards, eggs from overseas gain access to Western Europe’s market, ensuring safety and quality for consumers. Eggs Unlimited’s experience with compliance and supply-chain expertise positions it well to meet these requirements. Let us know if you’d like to explore how we could assist in navigating Western Europe’s egg import market! Contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com

How much do eggs cost in Western Europe?

Egg prices in Western Europe are shaped by a combination of production costs, market demand, regulatory policies, and global trade dynamics. The following are the key factors affecting egg prices in the region.

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1. Feed Costs (Corn and Soybean Prices)

• Feed accounts for 60–70% of egg production costs.
• Western Europe relies heavily on imported corn and soybeans, primarily from Brazil, the U.S., and Argentina.
• Droughts, trade restrictions, and currency fluctuations impact feed prices, directly affecting egg production costs.
• The EU’s push for sustainable agriculture may lead to higher feed costs as producers shift toward non-GMO and organic feed sources.

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2. Energy and Transportation Costs

• Rising electricity and fuel prices impact poultry farm operations, refrigeration, and egg transportation.
• Increased fuel taxes and carbon regulations in countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands add to logistics costs.
• Supply chain disruptions, such as port delays and labor strikes, can affect egg availability and pricing.

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3. Labor Costs and Regulatory Compliance

• Western Europe has high labor costs due to minimum wage laws and strict labor protections.
• Compliance with EU food safety and animal welfare regulations increases production expenses.
• Transitioning to cage-free and free-range systems, as mandated by EU policies, requires significant investment from producers.

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4. Supply and Production Levels

• Seasonal variations in egg production affect supply. Warmer weather may increase production, while extreme heat can cause declines.
• Disease outbreaks, such as Avian Influenza, can lead to large-scale flock culling, reducing supply and driving up prices.
• EU regulations on poultry density, hygiene, and welfare standards impact the number of eggs produced per farm.

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5. Consumer Demand and Market Trends

• Demand for organic, free-range, and specialty eggs is growing, leading to higher prices for premium products.
• Supermarkets and foodservice companies are shifting away from caged eggs due to consumer pressure and corporate sustainability goals.
• Demand increases during holiday seasons, such as Christmas and Easter, when more eggs are used in baking and food preparation.

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6. Government Policies and Animal Welfare Regulations

• The EU’s ban on battery cages (Directive 1999/74/EC) has increased production costs for farmers transitioning to enriched or free-range systems.
• National governments in Germany, France, and the Netherlands are introducing stricter animal welfare laws, further increasing costs.
• Subsidies or incentives for sustainable and organic egg production may impact pricing structures.

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7. Trade, Imports, and Exports

• Western Europe imports eggs primarily from Poland, the Netherlands, and Spain to meet demand.
• Export demand from Middle Eastern and Asian countries can reduce local supply and drive up prices.
• Brexit has caused trade complications between the UK and the EU, affecting egg availability and costs.

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8. Inflation and Currency Exchange Rates

• Rising inflation in the Eurozone increases production costs, pushing egg prices higher.
• A weaker euro (EUR) against the U.S. dollar (USD) makes imported feed and equipment more expensive.

Prices can change over time, and regional variations can be significant. To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for eggs in Western Europe, 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 Western Europe

Carton Size

Number of Eggs

Typical Use

4 Egg Carton	4 eggs	Small cartons designed for premium products, often organic or heritage eggs. Exotic eggs as well.
Half Dozen	6 eggs	Most commonly sold size for households. Widely available in all egg types (free-range, organic, barn, etc.).

10 Egg Carton	10 eggs	The most widely used carton size for everyday retail. Eggs are arranged in a 2×5 layout.
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 Western Europe 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:

Category	Weight per Egg (grams)
Extra Large (XL)	73g or more
Large (L)	63g–72g
Medium (M)	53g–62g
Small (S)	Less than 53g

Wholesale eggs or bulk egg packaging by the case

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 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.
• 720 Egg Pallet: (24 Trays of 30 Eggs) Palletized packaging for very large buyers or distributors.

Types of Eggs

Eggs in Western Europe are categorized by production method and farming practices, with some labels catering to specific consumer preferences:

• Conventional Eggs:
  • White Eggs
  • Brown Eggs
    • Produced by caged hens in large-scale facilities. These are the most affordable and widely available.
• Egg Products
  • Used by food manufacturers, bakeries, and restaurants. Includes:
  • Liquid Eggs: Pasteurized egg whites, yolks, or whole eggs.
  • Powdered Eggs: Dehydrated eggs for long shelf life and industrial use.
  • Frozen Eggs: Used for large-scale food production.
• Free-Range Eggs: Laid by hens that roam freely outdoors or in open barns, catering to consumers who prioritize animal welfare.
• Organic Eggs: From hens fed organic feed and raised under strict organic farming guidelines. These are typically more expensive.
• Specialty Eggs

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

How to sell commercial eggs in Western Europe?

Selling commercial eggs in Western Europe requires a strategic approach that aligns with EU regulations, buyer preferences, and market trends. Here’s a step-by-step guide to successfully enter and expand in the Western European market:

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1. Understand the Market

Western Europe has high egg consumption and strict regulations, with increasing demand for free-range, organic, and processed egg products.

Key Importing Countries & Buyers

• Germany 🇩🇪 – Europe’s largest egg importer, sourcing from the Netherlands, Poland, and Ukraine.
• France 🇫🇷 – High demand for organic and cage-free eggs, imports processed eggs.
• UK 🇬🇧 – Imports eggs and egg products from the Netherlands, Poland, and the US.
• Belgium & Netherlands 🇧🇪🇳🇱 – Act as distribution hubs for EU-wide egg trade.
• Spain & Italy 🇪🇸🇮🇹 – Growing import markets, especially for egg powder and liquid eggs used in food production.

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2. Comply with EU Egg Regulations

The European Union (EU) has strict rules on egg imports and sales:

A. Egg Marketing Standards (Regulation (EC) No 589/2008)

• Eggs must be classified and labeled based on farming method:
  • 0 – Organic
  • 1 – Free-range
  • 2 – Barn eggs
  • 3 – Caged eggs (banned in some countries but still legal in others).
• Traceability & Stamping: Each egg must have a producer code for tracking.

B. Food Safety & Hygiene (Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 & 853/2004)

• Requires strict hygiene measures from production to transport.
• Salmonella testing is mandatory for shell eggs.

C. Import Certification (If Selling from Outside the EU)

• Non-EU exporters must obtain:
  • Health certificate from the approved food safety authority.
  • EU approval for farms and processing plants.

D. Sustainability & Animal Welfare Standards

• Many Western European retailers require GlobalG.A.P., BRC, IFS, or local animal welfare certifications.

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3. Identify & Target the Right Buyers

A. Large Retailers & Supermarkets

• Key players: Lidl, Carrefour, Tesco, Aldi, E.Leclerc, Mercadona.
• Require high food safety standards and long-term contracts.
• Demand for free-range and organic eggs is growing.

B. Food Manufacturers & Processors

• Egg powder & liquid eggs for pasta, bakery, mayonnaise, and sauces.
• Target companies like Nestlé, Danone, Unilever, and local processors.
• Competitive pricing and bulk supply contracts are crucial.

C. Foodservice & Distributors

• Hotels, restaurants, and catering companies buy liquid and fresh eggs.
• Distributors like Metro, Makro, and wholesale markets supply these sectors.

D. Egg Traders & Wholesale Markets

• Key hubs: Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany act as distribution centers for eggs across Europe.
• Working with brokers and traders can help move high volumes quickly.

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4. Logistics & Supply Chain Management

• Cold Chain & Transport: Eggs must be transported under temperature-controlled conditions.
• Warehousing & Distribution: Partner with logistics providers specialized in perishable goods.
• EU Import Tariffs & Documentation: Ensure smooth customs clearance if exporting from outside the EU.

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5. Competitive Pricing & Market Entry Strategy

• Monitor Market Prices: Egg prices fluctuate due to avian flu, feed costs, and demand changes.
• Offer Flexible Contracts: Many buyers prefer spot purchases during shortages and long-term contracts for stability.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with European distributors to expand reach.

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6. Marketing & Sales Strategy

• Attend Trade Shows: Events like Alimentaria (Spain), SIAL (France), Anuga (Germany) help connect with buyers.
• Online Presence: Use a website and LinkedIn to target B2B buyers.
• Sustainability & Animal Welfare Messaging: Western European buyers value ethical farming and sustainability.

Contact Eggs Unlimited today for insight into the Western Europe egg market! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

EGG CERTIFICATIONS IN Western Europe 

Eggs sold in Western Europe must comply with European Union (EU) regulations and national food safety standards to ensure quality, traceability, and consumer safety. The certifications required vary based on food safety, organic production, animal welfare, and sustainability standards.

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1. Mandatory EU Certifications for Eggs

A. EU Food Safety and Hygiene Compliance

• EU Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 sets hygiene rules for food of animal origin, including eggs.
• EU Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003 mandates Salmonella control and testing for poultry farms.
• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is required for egg processing facilities.

B. Egg Classification and Labeling (EU Regulation 1308/2013)

All eggs must be classified by size and quality and labeled accordingly:

• Class A (Fresh Eggs) – For retail, must have an intact shell, firm yolk, and clear egg white.
• Class B (Industrial Use Eggs) – Used in food processing, powdered eggs, or non-food industries.

Each egg must be stamped with a producer code indicating:

1. Production method (0 = organic, 1 = free-range, 2 = barn, 3 = caged).
2. Country of origin (e.g., FR for France, DE for Germany).
3. Farm identification number for traceability.

C. Veterinary Health Certification for Imports

• Eggs imported from non-EU countries must have an International Veterinary Health Certificate proving compliance with EU food safety and animal health standards.
• Compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 798/2008 is required for imports from third countries.

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2. Organic and Specialty Egg Certifications

A. Organic Certification (EU Organic Label)

• Regulated under EU Regulation (EC) No 848/2018, which defines organic farming standards.
• Hens must be free-range and fed with 100% organic-certified feed.
• Certified organic eggs must display the EU organic leaf logo and the certifying body’s code.
• National organic certification bodies include:
  • Soil Association (UK)
  • Ecocert (France)
  • Biokreis (Germany)
  • CCPB (Italy)

B. Free-Range and Animal Welfare Certifications

Several independent certifications exist to ensure higher animal welfare standards beyond EU regulations.

• Certified Humane – Recognized across Western Europe.
• Beter Leven (Better Life) – Dutch certification promoting animal welfare.
• Neuland – German certification for high-welfare poultry farming.
• RSPCA Assured – UK certification for ethical treatment of hens.

C. Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade Certifications

• Some producers obtain Rainforest Alliance or Fair Trade certifications for sustainable and ethical egg production.
• Ensures eggs come from farms committed to environmental sustainability and fair labor practices.

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3. Additional Certifications for Processed Eggs

Eggs used in food manufacturing (liquid, powdered, frozen) must meet additional safety and quality standards:

• ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management System) ensures food safety in egg processing.
• IFS (International Featured Standards) and BRC (British Retail Consortium) Certification are required for suppliers selling to European retailers.
• Halal Certification is necessary for eggs sold in Muslim-majority markets.
• Kosher Certification is required for eggs sold in Jewish food markets.

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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 western european 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