Key requirements of the Lion Code of Practice

The Lion mark was re-introduced on egg boxes in November 1998 to denote eggs produced to a stringent new Code of Practice incorporating the latest research and advice on Salmonella and eggs from scientists and vets. Latest controls in the Lion Code of Practice, which are additional to current legislation, include:

• All hens producing Lion Quality eggs must have been vaccinated against Salmonella Enteritidis.
• A registration and ‘passport’ system ensures complete traceability of Lion Quality eggs, hens and feed.
• There are increased hygiene controls and Salmonella testing right through the production system.
• The Lion Code of Practice also incorporates higher standards of animal welfare than required by law.
• The Lion Code of Practice includes stringent feed controls, including production of feed to Universal Feed Assurance Scheme (UFAS) standards and the banning of growth promoters, canthaxanthin and lasalocid in laying birds.
• A best-before date and Lion logo must be printed on the shell of Lion Quality eggs as well as on the egg box.
• The Lion Quality mark is a registered trademark and can only be used by BEIC subscribers on egg shells and egg boxes which have been produced in accordance with the Lion Code of Practice and UK and EU law.
• The Lion Code of Practice is monitored by an independent agency in accordance with the EN 45011 standard. Farms and packing stations are regularly audited including unannounced audits.

For further information on the Lion Quality mark please download the file below:

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