The When
Laying Hen Housing Controversy Over Time
Controversy Timeline
Case study of progress so far - Alberta:
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Between January 2014 and December 2018: 20% of laying hens in Alberta transitioned out of conventional housing
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At the end of 2018: 32% of Albertan egg production was from laying hens housed in alternative systems
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At the end of 2021: 52% of laying hens were housed in alternative housing systems
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At the end of 2023: 63% of egg barns have transitioned to alternative housing systems
Retail Transition Away from Battery Cages
Major Brands Original Pledge Timeline to Achieve 100% Cage-Free
Progress as of 2025
Discussion & Engagement on Social Media
Public conversation about laying hen housing is active and wide-ranging. This Reddit data tracks overall engagement over time and breaks down which subtopics drew the most posts and replies.
Release of NFACC's Code of Practice
Approaching 2025 cage-free pledges of major brands
NFACC's 2013 Scientific Review Report released
Hidden camera exposes hen living conditions at McDonald's supplier
Increased traction of media pieces discussing commercial hen housing conditions