The recognition was announced at a launch event on Friday (Mar 7) attended by key officials, including Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat; Kongsak Khoopongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, Noppathorn Petchoti, Managing Director of Thawee Phant Phuket Co Ltd.
Also present were Dr Watchara Phumpradit, Director of Catalyst Co Ltd, and Bhumphan Kongwut, President of the Thailand Chefs Association, Phuket branch.
Together, they officially introduced the sale of “cage-free” eggs ‒ what most foreigners would call “pen-free” ‒ and presented animal welfare standard certificates to cage-free egg farms at Thawee Phant farm, the first facility of its kind in Phuket.
Governor Sophon highlighted the importance of the initiative in addressing Phuket’s growing demand for eggs.
He noted that while the 14 southern provinces produce approximately 5.5 million eggs per day, the demand is as high as 7mn eggs daily.
By introducing cage-free eggs, Phuket not only increases egg production but also aligns itself with global trends favouring ethical food consumption, Governor Sophon noted.
The initiative is expected to appeal to the province’s millions of tourists who prioritise animal welfare and sustainability, he added.
Mr Noppathorn emphasised that the introduction of cage-free eggs is a crucial step in making Phuket a model for sustainable food industry development.
Cage-free eggs come from hens that are allowed to move freely and exhibit natural behaviours, a practice gaining popularity in international markets, he said.
Thawee Phant farm plans to expand production and distribute its cage-free eggs to shopping malls, restaurants and hotels across Phuket, ensuring easy access to eco-friendly products for both residents and visitors, he added.
The transition to cage-free eggs is the result of a collaboration between Thawee Phant farm and Catalyst Co Ltd, a social enterprise focused on promoting fair and sustainable consumption.
The collaboration is expected to contribute to Thailand’s broader goal of developing a food system that prioritises animal welfare and environmental responsibility, said an official report of the event.