Nestle to switch to cage-free eggs globally by 2025

Nestle SA, the world's largest food company, said it will stop using eggs laid by caged hens in its food products across the world by 2025. 

Nestle said all shell eggs and egg products, such as egg white powder, will be sourced from cage-free eggs across the world by 2025. The food giant's pledge to switch to cage-free eggs globally follows its plan to phase out eggs from caged hens in the U.S. within three years.

Nestle jumped on the cage-free bandwagon two years ago when it joined other food producers such as General Mills (GIS) in a pledge to step away from eggs laid by caged hens in its American food products. The food maker on Thursday reiterated its commitment to transitioning to cage-free eggs in the U.S. and Europe within the next three years, and said it would aim to reach the same goal in the rest of the Americans, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania by 2025. Nestle said it has the same goal for Asia "as conditions allow."

"Our purpose is to enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future," the company said in a statement. "This includes ensuring decent welfare standards for animals that are reared for the ingredients used in our products."

Nestle has increased its investment in niche brands that reflect consumers' shift to healthier foods, such as its purchase of vegan food manufacturer Sweet Earth. 

The company said more than 40 percent of eggs it uses in Europe are already from cage-free sources.