Following a recent trend in the food industry, Lakewood-based Einstein Bros. Bagels said Monday it will switch to cage-free eggs in more than 600 locations nationwide by 2020.
The company, which is owned by Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc., is getting help from the American Humane Association to transition to cage-free eggs in its egg sandwiches, according to a statement.
“We at Einstein Bros. Bagels have a responsibility to ensure the humane treatment of animals and know that this is an important issue to our guests, employees, and franchisee and licensee partners,” Curt Bourg, vice president of supply chain for Einstein Noah, said in a statement.
Minnesota-based Caribou Coffee and California-based Peet’s Coffee both made the same pledge Monday. for about $364.5 million and also has a majority stake in Caribou and Peet’s.
Several other restaurant chains have announced a commitment in recent months to switch to cage-free eggs, including , Taco Bell and Dunkin’ Donuts. The move has been fueled in part by places like Denver-based Chipotle that have made animal welfare standards part of their marketing.
“We commend Einstein Bros. Bagels on their proactive stance to further their commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing practices,” said Marion Garcia, chief veterinary officer for the American Humane Association, in a statement. “We are pleased to work with leaders in the restaurant industry and provide our expertise in developing animal welfare policies that are realistic and attainable.”
There are more than 30 Einstein’s locations in the Denver metro area. Einstein Noah Restaurant Group also owns Noah’s New York Bagels and Manhattan Bagel.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
