Co-op is introducing British white eggs across its 2,400 stores in a bid to support its 100% free range commitment.

The convenience retailer, which was one of the first UK supermarkets to ban caged eggs and move to only source British free-range eggs in 2008, will now sell both white and brown eggs after extending its supply base.

Its most recent addition to its supply pool includes the Lohmann LSL hen breed, which is known for its welfare, longer laying cycles and increased feed utilisation.

The white eggs will represent around 10% of Co-op’s entire egg supply at launch, with the ambition to move to 30% by year three.

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

Co-op agricultural specialist Mark Kempsell said: “We know our member owners and customers care about where their food comes from and that’s why we’re proud of this next step in welfare following our commitment to sell 100% free range eggs across our stores – this is part of our ongoing commitment to champion the best of British all year around, and we’re thrilled this will be further supported by our long-term plan to roll out white eggs.”

It follows similar moves by Co-op in recent weeks to increase its commitment to British sourced and grown produce.

Last week, it became the first UK retailer to move to 100% British strawberries across its entire own-brand range and last month, the grocer launched a dedicated ‘Best of British’ section across its online delivery website.

The new section includes a range of 100% British products including beef, pork, chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, milk and cheese lines.