Sainsbury's, the UK's second largest supermarket, has announced it will only stock white eggs under its own brand, citing research that shows brown eggs have a 12.7% higher carbon footprint. The move is part of the supermarket's plan to reach net zero in its own operations by 2035 and across its supply chain by 2050. White hens are more feed-efficient, require less land and water, and produce less manure, all of which contribute to lower emissions. The switch is also linked to animal welfare benefits, as white hens are described as more docile with better health. Sainsbury's says all its shell eggs will remain free range. The change has sparked discussion on social media, but experts like Jez Fredenburgh of the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit call it a positive step for both emissions reduction and British farming.
