Austrian eggs: climate protection on the breakfast table

Austrian eggs: climate protection on the breakfast table

In Austria, consumers can be proud of one of their favorite foods: eggs. These are not only considered particularly tasty, but also real climate champions. The reason for this is the strict adherence to sustainable practices, such as feeding the chickens regionally and not keeping them in cages. In fact, this country sets an unparalleled standard in the EU when it comes to climate-friendly egg production.

The discussion about the benefits of egg consumption gains additional momentum with World Egg Day, which is celebrated every year on the second Friday in October. In over 140 countries, reference is made to the numerous benefits of eggs on this special day. Lower Saxony can particularly stand out in this respect: the standards for egg production in the Alpine republic are very high. A central concern here is the request for clear labeling of the origin and husbandry of eggs and egg products, an issue that is strongly requested by the industry.

The sustainability of Austrian eggs

More and more Austrians are choosing eggs with the AMA seal of quality. This seal stands for high-quality and environmentally friendly eggs, and egg consumption in Austria has reached record levels: on average, each resident consumes 248 eggs per year. But what makes local products so special? One of the main factors is feeding the laying hens with GMO-free, regional soy, which is purchased in a partnership with the Donau Soja association. This reduces CO₂ emissions and sets new standards in egg production in Europe.

Heinz Schlögl, the deputy chairman of the Austrian poultry industry, emphasizes: “By using certified, regional soy and not using overseas soy, Austrian companies save 100,000 tons of CO₂ every year.” More than 60 percent of the soy used comes directly from Austria, which not only results in shorter transport routes and lower CO₂ emissions, but also ensures compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation.

A call for transparency

The AMA seal of quality, which stands for animal-friendly farming methods, is enjoying growing popularity. In Austria, keeping laying hens in cages is a thing of the past, while in many other EU countries, where around 40 percent of chickens still live in cages, the old system continues. “Egg products from cages that are banned in Austria end up in products such as pasta and biscuits every day,” criticizes Schlögl and is therefore calling for mandatory labeling so that consumers know exactly where the eggs come from and under what conditions the chickens were kept.

With regard to the quality of egg production in Austria, it can be said that the industry is stable. Over 7.3 million laying hens ensure a continuous supply. Around 31 percent of the hens live in free range, 57 percent in barn systems and over 12 percent are kept organically. This variety of farming methods guarantees that fresh, local eggs are available at all times - be it for breakfast, as an ingredient in a recipe or for Christmas baking.

Eggs are not called a superfood for nothing. They are rich in vitamins and nutrients such as vitamins A, B, D, E and K as well as selenium and zinc. Their high protein content, which has excellent biological value, is particularly valued by athletes as it supports muscle building. Eggs are also an excellent filling food, making them a popular choice for healthy diets.

Overall, developments in Austrian egg production show that quality and environmental protection can go hand in hand. In the Alpine republic, consumers can not only enjoy delicious eggs with a clear conscience, but can also help reduce their carbon footprint. You can find out more about the background and peculiarities of egg consumption in Austria in a comprehensive report on www.tips.at.