Consumers want to see British eggs on the menu

New research* has shown that more than 60% of consumers want the country of origin of eggs to be highlighted on the menu.

The research, which was undertaken following a number of food poisoning outbreaks caused by imported eggs, also showed that around four out of every five consumers want to see British eggs being used in food service outlets.

While imported eggs are rarely seen on supermarket shelves, they are a regular feature in some food service outlets. Andrew Parker, Chairman of the British Egg Industry Council, said: "Salmonella in British eggs is a thing of the past, thanks to the food safety safeguards in the British Lion code. However, food service outlets may still be putting their customers at risk by using imported eggs that are not produced to the same standards as British Lion eggs."

The British egg industry is now calling on caterers to use honest labelling and show the country of origin of eggs on menus. Andrew Parker said: "Caterers have a duty of care to the people who eat on their premises and if they use imported eggs, they should at the very least own up to it."