Free range, eggs and debeaking

[shayker]

Assalaamu Alaykum

I just checked a major supermarket's website and apparently even hens that have free range may have their beaks trimmed .

Apparently they have their beaks trimmed because when indoors and being in close proximity to each other they can irritate each other and when irritated they can peck each other and cause harm.

Now it may be said that trimming their beaks means that they won't be able to peck each other. However putting hens in close proximity to each other is something that humans do to them and not their own choice as it were.

We are using debeaking as a solution to a problem which we created the environment for.

We should treat animals well. Is trimming their beaks cruel? And thus should we avoid eating eggs etc from suppliers that practice this?

I hope someone can advise.

May Allah almighty reward you.

Wassalaam

[shayker]

Assalaamu Alaykum

Well I contacted another supermarket to see whether they also used beak trimming and below is the reply they gave me.
I really don't know if this is considered causing pain to the animal or not. It feels to me as though it is. However it doesn't matter what I think. It is what shariah would say that matters.
I just thought I would post the reply.

Wassalaam

Dear *******

Thank you for your email asking for information regarding beak trimming.

The chickens which produce our eggs have their beaks trimmed at the hatchery using an infra red process.

The hard keratin tip of the beak is treated with infra red energy and falls away after a few days. Research shows that there is no lasting nerve damage that would prevent the chicken from behaving in a natural way.

All our laying hens are reared to the Freedom Food standard. This standard is defined and audited by the RSPCA and permits beak trimming using this method. This is the only farm assurance and labelling scheme focusing specifically on animal welfare.

It sets high standards for all aspects of the chicken’s life including breed, diet and living environment. We will continue to monitor progress in this area to establish whether we need to change our policy.

If you require any further information regarding Sainsbury’s policies, please visit our corporate website on www.jsainsburys.co.uk

We are grateful for you taking the time to contact us and we look forward to seeing you in store again soon.



Kind regards

Derek Gibson
Customer Manager