eggs are produced by hens raised on cage-free farms dedicated to responsible, science-based methods to ensure optimal hen care. Hens are able to roam vertically and horizontally in indoor barns in an environment which allows them to exhibit natural behaviors. The standards are verified by third-party audits.

UEP Certified eggs are produced by hens raised on farms dedicated to responsible, science-based methods to ensure optimal hen care. In order to use this logo, producers must implement the UEP Certified standards on all farms, which is verified by third-party audits.

Organic eggs are produced by hens fed and housed according to the United States Department of Agriculture established organic standards.  This includes a diet consisting of ingredients grown to standards detailed within the organic program and other special requirements such as access to the outdoors. For more information on production guidelines for organic eggs, visit .

The American Humane Certified logo signifies eggs are produced in layer houses that follow science-based animal welfare standards for either cage-free, enriched colony, or free-range/pasture environments. Eggs that are American Humane Certified come from layer houses that have verified program compliance through a third-party audit. For more information, visit the website.

The Certified Humane logo signifies eggs are produced in layers houses that meet the Humane Farm Animal Care’s science-based animal welfare standards for either cage-free or free-range/pasture environments. Eggs that are Humane Certified come from layer houses that have verified program compliance through a third-party audit. For more information, visit .

There are no uniform standards for free-range labeled eggs which are produced on farms where hens have some access to the outdoors. These eggs are usually more expensive, due to high production costs and the lower volume of eggs per farm.

There are no uniform standards for pasture-raised labeled eggs which are produced on farms where hens have some access to the outdoors. These eggs are usually more expensive, due to high production costs and the lower volume of eggs per farm.

Pasteurized eggs are regulated by the FDA. Shell eggs are heated to temperatures just below the coagulation point to destroy pathogens. This type of egg may provide benefits for immune-compromised individuals.

Eggs enriched with Omega-3’s contain from 100 mg up to 600 mg of Omega-3’s, compared to the typical 30 mg in regular eggs. This is due to an enhanced diet fed to the hens during laying, often containing canola, linseed and flax seed. Omega-3 enhanced eggs are not limited to a specific housing style.

Vegetarian Fed eggs are produced from hens fed a vegetarian diet and are not limited to a specific housing style.  Chickens are natural omnivores, meaning they will eat foods of both animal and plant origin in less controlled environments.  Therefore, this label is typically not applicable for pasture and free range eggs.

Regardless of the label, all hens are raised without supplemental hormones.  This is required by U.S. federal law.

Fertile eggs are eggs laid by hens who have mated with a rooster. They can be found at specialty food stores. Commercially raised eggs are not fertile.