A campaign calling for mandatory animal welfare labels on food packaging has gained strong backing across the UK. Despite current regulations providing minimal disclosure—only for eggs and some fish—advocates highlight that clear labels could improve animal welfare standards and transform consumer habits. With 99% of individuals supporting such transparency, the time for government action is now.
- 99% public support for mandatory animal welfare labelling
- Only eggs and unprocessed fish currently require production method info
- Clear labels can boost welfare and influence consumer choices
What happened
In June 2025, the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) responded to a consultation on method of production labelling for animal products, signaling potential reforms. This followed extensive public engagement, with 99% of individuals and 69% of organisations advocating for clear, mandatory labels on food packaging that detail how animals were raised and slaughtered.
Currently, UK law requires minimal labeling disclosures — only whole eggs from hens and some unprocessed fish like salmon have standards for rearing information. Most packaged animal products lack clear, accessible descriptions of welfare conditions. This campaign calls for the government to enact mandatory labelling to provide consumers with transparent, trustworthy details about animal care throughout the food supply chain.
Why it feels good
Clear and consistent animal welfare labels empower consumers to make food choices aligned with their values, promoting higher welfare farming and slaughter practices. Transparent information guides shoppers to select products from animals raised with adequate space, light, and humane treatment, fostering trust and confidence in the food they buy.
Experience from the UK’s egg labelling scheme demonstrates the impact such measures can have. Since its introduction in 2004, sales of cage-free eggs increased from about 30% to nearly 60%, highlighting how informed consumer demand can drive improvements in welfare standards. When given clear options, most people choose to support more ethical production methods.
What to enjoy or watch next
If you're interested in making more informed food choices and supporting better treatment of animals, watch for updates from the RSPCA and DEFRA on labelling reforms over the coming months. You can also explore resources on how to read existing food labels and identify higher welfare products in supermarkets.
Meanwhile, consider joining the campaign to urge your local MP to support mandatory welfare labelling. Consumers have the power to shape the future of food production by choosing products that reflect kindness and respect for animals. Staying informed about labelling developments will help you make the best decisions for your values and well-being.