You might "bock" at this statistic, but it's true:  As much as 74 % of the world's chicken and 68% of our eggs are produced in factory farms.  In factory poultry farming  (also known as battery farming), birds are kept in rows of cages inside a completely automated and artificial environment.  Lighting is often added to superficially extend daylight and facilitate increased egg production.  Hormones and growth stimulants are added to the birds' feed to encourage egg production or weight gain.  (Would you like a side of pancakes or toast with your hormones today?) 

In contrast, free range poultry farming allows the birds to move around, foraging for their natural diet and living in cleaner conditions than in battery farming.  Many free range farmers abstain from using antibiotics, hormones and other artificial techniques.

Free range farming methods support a healthier natural environment as well, by reducing the concentration of animals.  A less dense population reduces the concentration and amount of waste, as well as decreasing the risk of disease and injury.  More space = happy chickens, tastier meat, more eggs and a cleaner planet.

But not all free range chicken farms are created equally, so it's important to do your homework or you just might end up with egg on your face.

No yolk!