Earth Fare’s “Free Bird” Initiative receives recognition from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

Earth Fare will no longer sell eggs from caged birds in any of its 12 stores in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. Earth Fare has joined the growing list of grocery stores and universities that have pledged never to purchase eggs from caged hens. “Because of our commitment to corporate responsibility and the humane treatment of animals, Earth Fare is proud to have a policy against the sale of eggs from caged birds,” states Earth Fare President Mike Cianciarulo.

According to The HSUS Factory Farming Campaign Manager Paul Shapiro, “Battery-caged hens are among the most abused animals in all of agribusiness. Earth Fare has taken a positive step to help reduce animal suffering by pledging never to purchase eggs from caged hens, and we commend their efforts and encourage other grocers to follow suit.”

Several universities have also jumped on board against this practice, including George Washington University, Marist College, Vassar College, University of Arizona, University of Connecticut, American University, and University of Rochester.