Michigan now requires that all shell eggs sold in the state come from hens kept in cage-free housing systems. This sweeping policy affects producers, distributors, retailers—and even consumers—in major ways. Here’s a detailed, user-friendly guide explaining why it matters and how it unfolds.
1. The Law at a Glance: Senate Bill 174
In November 2019, Michigan passed Senate Bill 174 (Public Act 132 of 2019), updating the Animal Industry Act. It requires that, by December 31, 2024, all shell eggs sold in Michigan must come from cage-free systems. Exceptions apply for smaller farms—those with fewer than 3,000 egg-laying hens are exempt.
2. What “Cage-Free” Actually Means
“Cage-free” means hens must roam freely indoors—not tethered or confined—in systems that allow natural behaviors like standing, spreading wings, turning around, dust-bathing, and perching. Common cage systems—battery cages, colony cages, enriched cages—are banned. Operators must ensure floor space meets industry housing guidelines, and care staff must be able to move within the hen space to tend them.
3. Implementation Timeline
Though the law passed in 2019, enforcement was delayed to allow for a smooth transition. It officially took effect on January 1, 2025. Retailers and producers had until the end of 2024 to switch their sourcing to cage-free eggs.
4. Who It Affects
- Large farms (3,000+ hens): Must produce cage-free eggs.
- Producers, distributors, retailers: Must ensure all shell eggs sold comply.
- Small farms (under 3,000 hens): Exempt—but voluntary compliance may open market opportunities.
5. Duties for Businesses
Businesses that sell shell eggs must obtain written confirmation from their suppliers verifying cage-free production compliance. These records should align with FDA traceability standards—typically kept for two years—and must be available for inspection by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).
6. How It’s Enforced
MDARD integrates cage-free compliance checks into routine food inspections. They focus on education early on—providing warnings before penalties. Repeat violations, however, can result in fines or business license revocation under civil enforcement tools.
7. Why Michigan Pursued This Law
Motivated by expanding consumer demand for humane treatment, national commitments from big retailers to go cage-free by 2025, and alignment with similar legislation across major egg-producing states, Michigan positioned itself as a leader in ethical egg production.
8. Real-World Impact: Transition & Challenges
Many egg producers have already upgraded their barns, but transitioning is costly—requiring new housing, more labor, specialized ventilation, and handling for hens moving freely. Facilities like Farm Crest Foods have reported a steep learning curve in managing hen health and biosecurity during the shift.
9. Link to Rising Egg Prices
Around the same time as the law’s effect, Michigan—and the nation—experienced an avian flu outbreak and ongoing inflation, pushing egg prices up by over 37%. While cage-free systems may increase production costs, industry data suggests flu outbreaks and supply disruptions are the primary drivers behind price spikes.
10. Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Law | Public Act 132 of 2019 (SB 174) |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2025 |
| Requirement | All shell eggs sold must come from cage-free systems |
| Exemption | Farms with fewer than 3,000 laying hens |
| Business Duty | Obtain and maintain written verification from suppliers |
| Enforcement | MDARD inspections, with warnings and potential penalties |
| Impacts | Higher operational costs, potential eggshortages, ongoing bird flu pressures |
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Does my local grocery have to follow it?
Yes—retailers selling shell eggs must comply. They can’t sell non-cage-free shell eggs unless sourced from exempt small farms.
Does it apply to liquid or processed eggs?
No—only whole shell eggs intended for human consumption.
Can I still buy conventional eggs from small local farms?
Yes—if the farm has fewer than 3,000 hens, their shell eggs may still be legal for sale in Michigan.
Is it the reason eggs are so expensive?
Not alone. The main drivers are a severe avian flu outbreak and supply inflation. However, transitioning to cage-free production does add cost and complexity.
12. Final Thoughts
Michigan’s cage-free egg law reflects a statewide move toward more humane agriculture—but it also redefines supply, cost, and logistics in the egg industry. Producers, businesses, and shoppers will need to stay informed and adaptable as the state and nation adjust to new norms in food ethics. With clear rules and compliance systems in place, we may see a kinder, more transparent egg market emerge.