How EQA Certified Eggs Meet Consumers’ Sustainable Food Preferences
The demand for sustainably produced food is growing as Canadians become more aware of how their food makes it from the farm to their table. In fact, more than half of Canadians factor in sustainability when purchasing their food.¹
The nutritional value of food, whether it is locally sourced and if it meets quality and safety standards, are all factors which 70% of Canadians consider to be markers for sustainability.1 Thankfully, Egg Quality Assurance™ (EQA®) certified Canadian eggs check all of these boxes:
- Nutrition: Eggs serve as an excellent source of high-quality protein and provide healthy fats and essential nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E, choline, folate and iron.
- Locally sourced from Canadian farms: Eggs are available locally throughout Canada, making their way from the farm to your table typically within less than a week.
- Quality and safety: Canadian egg farmers follow important protocols at their farms to ensure their eggs are produced according to rigorous standards for food safety and animal welfare.
The Role of the EQA® Program
The components of the EQA® program are core pillars to sustainable egg farming in Canada. With strict requirements in the areas of food safety and animal care, Canadians can be confident in the responsible production of high-quality eggs.
It all starts on the farm, where egg farmers nationwide follow the Start Clean-Stay Clean® food safety program. From inspections to mandated standards for storage, cleanliness, air quality, feed and record-keeping, the program is acknowledged by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for being technically sound.
Simultaneously, Canadian egg farmers take part in a national Animal Care Program, which is based on the National Farm Animal Care Council’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pullets and Laying Hens. This program includes regular inspections of farms to ensure that hens have a comfortable environment, a well-balanced and nutritious diet, fresh water, and clean surroundings.
Farmers must follow the rigorous standards of both the Start Clean-Stay Clean® program and the Animal Care Program. In fact, all eggs from regulated egg farms must meet these standards to receive their EQA® certification and for their eggs to be sold in stores or restaurants.
Look for the Mark!
The EQA® certification mark symbolizes the commitment of all Canadian egg farmers to produce high-quality eggs meeting world-class farming practices. The verification process of the EQA® program ensures that all certified eggs meet these benchmarks, giving consumers trust in their choices and access to nutritious and high-quality food.
When buying eggs, look for the EQA® certification mark! By choosing EQA®, you can trust the quality in every egg, all while supporting Canadian egg farmers.
¹ Egg Farmers of Canada (June, 2023). Egg product sustainability messaging study.