Target: Frans Muller, CEO of Ahold Delhaize
Goal: Demand accountability and swift transition to 100% cage-free eggs.
Recent protests at Hannaford Supermarkets’ headquarters highlight escalating concerns over the grocery chain’s failure to uphold a commitment to sell only cage-free eggs by 2025. Demonstrators, including members of the animal rights group Mercy for Animals, have raised alarms about the company’s shift in timelines, now aiming for only 70% cage-free by 2030 and full compliance by 2032. This reversal of commitments has left many questioning the integrity of Hannaford’s promises and their treatment of animals within their supply chain.
Mercy for Animals has called upon Hannaford’s parent company, Ahold Delhaize USA, to increase transparency and accountability by publishing a detailed and incremental plan outlining specific milestones for achieving a fully cage-free egg supply. The lack of clarity about the progress made toward meeting these commitments has been met with frustration by animal rights advocates and consumers alike, who are demanding immediate action.
Holding companies accountable for their potential misleading claims and ensuring the welfare of animals is critical in the effort to improve standards within the food industry. In light of these concerning developments, it is essential that Hannaford is urged to fulfill their commitment to animal welfare by expediting their transition to 100% cage-free eggs, restoring consumer trust and compassion in their practices.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CEO Muller,
Recent protests at Hannaford’s headquarters have brought to light urgent concerns regarding your company’s delayed transition to cage-free eggs. Originally pledging to achieve 100% cage-free egg sourcing by 2025, Ahold Delhaize has abandoned this commitment by pushing the deadline back to 2030 for 70% cage-free eggs and 2032 for full compliance. Many believe this undermines the trust customers have in your brand and raises serious ethical questions about animal welfare within your supply chain.
Moreover, advocacy groups like Mercy for Animals have aptly pointed out that the lack of transparency surrounding your company’s progress is unacceptable. The absence of a clear incremental plan with milestones contributes to the perception that Hannaford is evading its responsibilities. Customers deserve clarity and accountability regarding the treatment of animals that supply food products.
This situation necessitates immediate action. It is imperative that Hannaford demonstrates its commitment to animal welfare by accelerating its efforts to transition to 100% cage-free eggs, as originally promised. Consumers must be able to trust that their purchasing decisions support ethical practices, and the time for change is now.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
