CSR Wire : Bon Appétit Management Co. Pledges to Sell Only Cage-Free Eggs in Its Nearly 200 Dining Facilities

Beginning November 15th, Bon Appétit will phase in cage-free shell eggs over a 12 month period. The company’s ultimate goal is for all its eggs to be completely cage-free. The company has also pledged to only purchase eggs from sources that meet the animal care standards of Humane Farm Animal Care, an independent farm animal welfare certifying organization. The roll-out will begin in Bon Appétit’s East Coast cafes, reaching all 190 locations throughout the Bon Appétit system by November 15th, 2006.

“Bon Appétit has taken a powerful stand against cruelty to animals. Its decision to use only cage-free eggs will have a far-reaching effect on other companies, suppliers, and consumers, as it will drive changes in egg sourcing practices for the entire food service industry. We applaud Bon Appétit’s decision and ask other companies to follow its example,” said Wayne Pacelle, HSUS President and CEO.

Bon Appétit serves more than 55 million meals each year, with nearly 200 dining facilities in 26 states, and it uses more than 8 million shell eggs annually. This decision reflects its commitment to socially responsible food sourcing.