McDonald’s Canada to transition to cage-free eggs

McDonald’s Canada currently buys apprxomately 120 million eggs from Canadian suppliers each year. PHOTO: McDonald’s

TORONTO—McDonald’s Canada is going cage-free. The ubiquitous fast food chain has announced it will transition to sourcing 100 per cent Canadian cage-free eggs, also known as free run, for its restaurants over the next 10 years.

The restaurant’s iconic Egg McMuffin, as well as its other breakfast options, require McDonald’s Canada to buy approximately 120 million eggs from Canadian farmers each year, making the slow transition a major undertaking. McDonald’s says it will work with industry stakeholders to identify the best path forward, while continuing to work within Canada’s supply management system.

“Our guests increasingly tell us they appreciate the efforts we go to in responsibly sourcing high quality ingredients,” said John Betts, president and CEO, McDonald’s Canada. “Our decision to source 100 per cent Canadian cage-free eggs reinforces the focus we’re placing on our food and menu to meet our guests’ changing expectations, allowing them to feel even better about the food they enjoy at our restaurants.”

As customer preferences have shifted toward healthier, local options for meals, McDonald’s has been grappling to maintain its grip on the North American fast food industry. The move is part of an effort to respond more readily to customers’ needs.

“Animal welfare has always been important to us and our guests,” Rob Dick, senior director of supply chain at McDonald’s Canada, said. “Today’s announcement is another milestone building on our work with industry experts and suppliers to improve the treatment of animals throughout our supply chain.”