General Mills, the company behind products like Cheerios cereals and Betty Crocker cake mixes, announced Tuesday that it aims to implement the use of cage-free eggs come 2025.
This is the first time that the food company has declared a timeline regarding the movement. It already previously showed its support for the cause by stating in July that it will work towards achieving the conditions and guidelines of the "Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare," but has yet to determine how and when, Reuters reported.
"We really see this as a long-term goal that will require unparalleled collaboration," said Steve Peterson, director of sustainable sourcing at General Mills, according to The Inquisitr.
The switch has a direct impact on dairy suppliers, so General Mills waited until they were able to discuss the matter with the suppliers before reaching the set timeframe.
Since the new program focuses on fair treatment of animals, farms that supply beef and pork are also being requested to make the changes that would adhere to the guidelines, starting with the use of antibiotics, The Inquisitr added.
Other food companies, including Kelloggs, Hershey's and Nestle, are also taking part in the switch to follow more natural ways to create ingredients, according to Fortune.
