The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has introduced new egg-labelling rules for free-range poultry affected by the avian influenza (bird flu) housing order.

Eggs originating from free-range flocks in the east of England (Norfolk, Suffolk and parts of Essex) will need to be labelled as barn eggs from today (Wednesday, February 1).

For the rest of the country, this new labelling requirement will apply from February 27.

The introduction of the 'barn egg' label puts an end to the grace period given for free-range egg labelling following the mandatory housing measures that were introduced in October (regional) and November (national) 2022.

Defra granted this new labelling requirement, which will remain in place until the housing order is lifted, in recognition of the current elevated costs facing the industry.

“Farmers and poultry producers are facing real pressures as a result of this avian influenza outbreak," said Farming Minister Mark Spencer.

“We are very mindful of the need to maintain consumer confidence in the free-range brand long-term and appreciate the continued cooperation from the sector as we battle this insidious disease," he added.

New egg-labelling guide

Industry must put in place one of the requirements for marketing eggs laid on or after the expiry of the 16-week derogation below. These are, in order of preference: