The Co-operative Food has been ranked the highest among retailers, scoring more than double the average of other retailers and wholesalers, in a new benchmark on the farm animal welfare practices of global food companies.

The Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare, supported by Compassion in World Farming and the World Society for the Protection of Animals, is the first benchmark of its kind.  It is designed to help drive higher farm animal welfare standards in the world’s leading food businesses, through recognising companies operating to high standards. The benchmark findings were published on Monday (25th February 2013.

The Co-operative said best practice in animal welfare is central to its food business strategy.  The food group was praised for its work to promote higher farm animal welfare to consumers, and its commitment to farm animal welfare throughout its supply chain, particularly its commitment to laying hen welfare.

The Co-operative received recognition for its policy on free range eggs. All fresh eggs sold across the company's 2,800 food stores are British and since 2008 have been either free range or organic. The Co-operative added that all egg ingredients in Co-operative own-brand products are free range as a minimum.

Co-operative spokesperson Steve Murrells said on Monday, "Farm animal welfare is extremely important to us and our customers and members, and we adhere to a strict ethical policy to ensure we meet the high standards expected of us. It's great to have our commitment recognised by The Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare, which demonstrates how we are raising farm animal welfare standards.

“Choosing higher welfare products should not necessarily mean paying a premium price, and this is why our customers can be assured of higher welfare standards across all our ranges."

More information about The Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare is available at www.bbfaw.com