The research will explore community attitudes towards the egg industry across a broad range of topics, including food security, biosecurity, traceability, animal welfare and environmental impacts.
Study lead Dr Kieren Moffat said this fifth year of research would build on previous findings to examine and understand the community’s changing views and priorities, and provide a solid indication of the public’s trust in the Australian egg industry.
“More than 33,000 Australians have contributed to this research program over the past four years, providing a deeper understanding on what the community values in and from the egg industry,” Dr Moffat said.
“Sustainability is a major issue globally and it is important that the egg industry remains focused on how it fits into this growing movement.
“We encourage Australians who want to have a voice on issues related to the egg industry to take part in the public open survey, as the data collected will be shared with Australian Eggs to shape their agenda and priorities over the coming years.”
Australian Eggs managing director Rowan McMonnies said the community’s insights were instrumental in helping shape industry plans.
“This year-on-year survey acts as an effective call and response between us as an industry and the public, continuing to drive transparency and trust which is demonstrated through the delivery of tangible outputs and solutions to significant issues like hen welfare, biosecurity, food safety and environmental sustainability,” Mr McMonnies said.
“Just recently, we have supported UTS researchers in the development of a world-leading artificial intelligence-based system to monitor the movement and behaviour of cage-free hens to improve their health and welfare and minimise dangers.
“The data output from the public’s participation in this survey is invaluable. It allows us to continue to meet and exceed the public’s standards of our industry year-on-year and align with industry standards globally.”
To participate in the research, go to: https://www.australianeggs.org.au/what-we-do/sustainable-production/sustainability-framework
The survey closes on Monday, June 20.