From
Bret Thorn, NRN: The United Egg Producers and the Humane
Society of the United States signed an agreement Thursday that ends
years of conflict and paves the way for changes in how egg-laying
hens are housed, but also will likely result in higher egg
prices.
The animal rights group and the egg farmers cooperative signed a
memorandum of understanding to work to enact federal regulations
stipulating the treatment of egg-laying hens and mandatory labeling
laws.
The HSUS has long had an adversarial relationship both with
agricultural boards and restaurant chains. In recent years, it has
purchased shares in dozens of foodservice companies with the stated
goal of changing those companies' purchasing practices to buy food
produced in what the HSUS considers more humane conditions.
Recent targets have included Steak 'n Shake, Jack in the Box and
Bob Evans.
Patrick Lenow, executive director of corporate communications at
DineEquity, parent company of Applebee's and IHOP, said he sees the
accord as a positive move. Read more...