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This study, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Citizens’ Rights and Constitutional Affairs at the request of the PETI Committee, presents alternatives for cage housing of farm animals and laying hens and sows in particular. Cage-free housing has a positive effect on the behavioural freedom and welfare of animals. No major problems arise with regard to other aspects of sustainability. Research shows that cage-free housing is currently possible or will be in the future. ...

While the EU chicken-meat and egg sector shows some diversity in terms of farm and flock size, yield and types of farming within and between European countries, it is known to be one of the most intensive farming systems in the EU, with farms numbering hundreds of thousands of birds. This paper aims to provide an overview of the sector's structure in the EU and of the relevant legislation and policy instruments – from CAP support to farmers, and trade and marketing standards, to legislation with ...