How is farming related to battery hens and animal welfare?

Farming practices, particularly in the poultry industry, often involve the use of battery hens, which are kept in small cages that restrict their movement and natural behaviors. This method prioritizes high production and efficiency over animal welfare, leading to significant ethical concerns regarding the living conditions of the hens. Critics argue that such confinement causes physical and psychological distress, prompting calls for more humane farming practices that allow for better welfare standards. As consumers become more aware of these issues, there is a growing demand for free-range and organic egg production that supports animal welfare.