Even though I see the same egg options every time I hit the grocery store, I still spend WAY too much time staring at the choices: ‘free-range,’ ‘cage-free,’ ‘organic,”all natural,’ ‘hormone free’ – and then you run across a carton that has a COMBINATION of label choices…….
I say, enough! Let’s get to the bottom of this. Or at least somewhere past the pretty random choice I always make.
Check out the “Consumer Ally” and an Egg-specific source.
Here is a little sneak preview:
- Free-Run/Cage-Free Eggs: Many people buy free-run eggs believing that the chickens that lay them have access to outdoor pasture, but the reality is that these chickens usually live inside dark sheds. They are free to roam around within the enclosed space and to stretch and spread their wings, which is a significant improvement over battery cage conditions, but they don’t have access to outdoor pasture. As with battery cage farming, forced molting (starving hens to produce more eggs) and beak trimming (removal of a portion of the beak, usually with a heated blade) are common practices. Cage-free eggs may be from free-run (indoors only) or free-range hens (hens with access to outdoor space). Free-run/cage-free egg producers are not audited by third-party inspectors.
- Free-Range Eggs: Free-range egg layers are also housed in sheds with slotted floors or litter, but in addition to roaming freely within their sheds, they have access to outdoor areas with vegetation when weather permits and thus live a far more natural lifestyle. They are often (though not always) provided with nest boxes in which to lay their eggs. Forced molting and beak trimming are permitted.True free-range eggs are more nutritious than those obtained from battery cages. However, free-range producers are not audited by third parties unless the eggs are also certified organic. The similar label “Pasture Raised” is also unregulated. In addition, it should be noted that the “Pasteurized” label, sometimes mistaken for a free-range indication, actually means that eggs have been treated to eliminate salmonella bacteria so that they may be eaten raw.
- Certified Organic Eggs: Certified organic eggs come from hens that have access to outdoor areas with vegetation and are fed an organic diet, though forced molting and beak trimming are allowed. The conditions in which certified organic eggs are laid are verified by third parties, which reduces the likelihood of fraudulent labelling.
The theme is Energy! There will be a representative from Energy Hub, a new pilot program on Barnard’s campus that is working to reduce individual consumption and save the college thousands of dollars. You will also have a chance to ask any energy-related questions such as: where does Barnard’s energy come from? What are some ways to reduce my own energy consumption? There’s free food and good company, so bring your plate and fork and join the EcoReps for some interesting conversation!
Gap is giving you a deal this week: bring in your old denim and get 30% off a new pair, PLUS they will use your old threads for building insulation!
– offer ends March 14th —
Pretty great deal.
Check out the front page of Scienceline! The EcoReps are featured in an article about composting on campus.
The Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School seeks undergraduate interns for summer 2010. The Center was established in 2009 to develop legal techniques to fight climate change and is led by Professor Michael Gerrard, who teaches climate change, environmental, and energy law courses at the law school. Interns will work closely with Professor Gerrard and other lawyer staff members at the Center in carrying out a variety of research tasks that may include research on greenhouse gas offset protocols, adaptation measures, municipal ordinances relating to renewable energy siting, and state and federal environmental impact assessments of climate change. This is a terrific opportunity for those interested in environmental law and policy. Interns should expect to attend a bi-weekly Center meeting held on Mondays, but otherwise have flexible hours. Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to hannah.chang@law.columbia.edu
Our long-awaited public service announcement about WATER BOTTLE FILLING STATIONS is now online!
Corefoods is hosting an event this Friday, February 26th at 7 pm!
There will be a screening of King Corn, and the sequel Big River, and will have the producer, Curt Ellis, to host a Q&A section afterwards. It’ll take place in Hamilton 603. It’s a great opportunity to speak to a maker of the new wave of organic food documentaries, so come!
We’ve moved sites!
Same address (barnardecoreps.com), different set up!
Please explore the site, its got tons of great resources and links, and if you see any problems, or want anything else, just email us at ecoreps@barnard.edu!
