WHEN YOU bring together the worlds top athletes, theres going to be a big demand for protein and that means a lot of eggs. The worlds top swimmer, Michael Phelps, has three fried eggs sandwiches and a five-egg omelette for breakfast.
All eight of Phelps eggs at this summers Olympics in London will be British Lion free range, under the guidance set out by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG).
However, if he wanted a quiche for lunch, the rules on the source of the eggs wasnt so clear, with caterers advised to use British where possible when sourcing egg products.
After detailed briefings from industry representatives, highlighting the continued production of illegal battery cage eggs in some parts of the EU, Lord Sebastian Coe has now confirmed that “with regards to other egg products, we will be reiterating our expectation of our caterers to source all other egg products from eggs produced in legal systems only.
He added: We are confident that, as our caterers are required to use British products where possible, this will help in our fulfilment of our expectation.”
Andrew Parker, British Egg Industry Council chairman, said: “We’re delighted that LOCOG is supporting British producers and underlining how important it is that all Olympic Games caterers ensure their eggs and egg products fully comply with the legislation banning barren battery cages.”
Peter Kendall, President of the NFU, added: “Following a long period of the industry working together, it’s good to see LOCOG confirm that the criteria of the ground-breaking food vision will be extended to egg products, which will enhance both the customer experience of the Games and the prospect of a sustainable food service legacy following it.”
Caterers, retailers and food manufacturers, among others in the food industry, are being urged to sign the pledge page on www.legaleggs.com to show their support for keeping eggs and egg products produced from hens housed in illegal battery cages out of the UK.