ORLANDO — Darden Restaurants Inc. announced its recent commitment to sourcing only cage-free eggs for its international locations by 2027. Over 1,850 locations in North America, Central America, South America and Asia are affected by the change in policy.

“One hundred percent of all egg products purchased by Darden for use in our US owned and operated restaurants are sourced from cage-free housing systems,” the company noted in its updated animal welfare policy. “Additionally, our international franchisees are working to source only cage-free eggs, as they are able, by the end of 2027.”

Darden Restaurants’ brands include Olive Garden, The Capital Grille, LongHorn Steakhouse, Bahama Breeze, Seasons 52, Yard House, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen and Eddie V’s.

“We applaud Darden’s decision to stop serving eggs from caged hens to its international guests,” said Kirsty Tuxford of Lever Foundation, a US-based non-profit which works with companies, including Darden Restaurants, on shifting toward cage-free egg sourcing in global markets. 

“The company’s new cage-free policy will greatly benefit the welfare of egg-laying hens in its international supply chain as well as increase food safety for customers.”

Other companies to have committed to sourcing only cage-free eggs include Bloomin’ Brands, Focus Brands, Inspire Brands, Restaurant Brands International, YUM Brands and JAB Holdings, among others.