Buying eggs from the store may seem normal, but commercial egg production has serious ethical and environmental concerns. Raising your own hens allows you to enjoy fresh, ethical eggs while avoiding these issues. Here are the top reasons to make the switch.
1. Hens Are Culled at Just 72 Weeks
In industrial egg production, hens are typically slaughtered at around 72 weeks because their egg production declines. Instead of supporting this inhumane practice, raising your own hens allows them to live naturally and avoid premature culling. With a Nestera easy-clean coop, chicken keeping is hassle-free. Our coops are built to last and designed for easy maintenance, so you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying fresh eggs.
2. Beak Trimming Causes Long-Term Suffering
Commercial farms trim hens' beaks to prevent pecking in overcrowded conditions. This painful procedure can lead to eating difficulties and chronic pain. By raising backyard hens, you ensure they have space to forage, roost, and dust-bathe naturally.
3. Commercial Hens Suffer from Injurious Pecking
Overcrowding and stress in commercial farms lead to harmful pecking, injuries, and even deaths. Backyard hens, with more space and enrichment, are far less likely to experience these issues.
4. Commercial Egg Farming Pollutes the Environment
Large-scale egg production creates massive waste, contributing to air and water pollution. Backyard chicken keepers can compost manure sustainably, reducing their environmental footprint.
5. Ethical and Sustainable Practices
By keeping your own hens, you control their diet, housing, and care. You can opt for organic feed, free-range living, and humane treatment, avoiding the cruelty of commercial farming.
6. Backyard Eggs Are Fresher and More Nutritious
Home-raised eggs are richer in flavor and nutrients compared to store-bought ones. Hens raised in stress-free environments produce eggs with vibrant yolks and higher nutritional value. Here’s what you can feed your hens for high quality eggs.
7. A Deeper Connection with Your Food
Raising hens fosters an appreciation for food production. Producing your own eggs reduces reliance on commercial systems and promotes a more sustainable lifestyle.
8. Personal Satisfaction and Peace of Mind
Caring for hens is deeply rewarding. Watching them roam and knowing they are treated humanely provides peace of mind while ensuring high-quality eggs.
Buying eggs may be convenient, but industrial egg production has significant ethical and environmental downsides. Keeping hens offers a sustainable, humane, and rewarding alternative. If you value animal welfare, sustainability, and food quality, backyard chickens may be the perfect solution.
Still not sure? Here are 10 reasons why keeping chickens is beneficial for your physical and mental health.
