Sainsbury’s is to launch a development group to support its egg farmers and protect the supply of the popular protein for years to come.

An industry first, the Sainsbury’s Egg Group, which is launching next month, is formed in collaboration with the retailer’s three main egg packers and will include over 100 farmers from across the UK who supply it with eggs.

Through this, Sainsbury’s will take “a leadership position” on pay for egg farmers by making a commitment to always pay the cost of production or above for eggs in a bid to provide financial reassurance.

Building on the grocer’s move to free range eggs, the group will aim to drive continuous improvement in animal welfare. An example of this is through the sharing of data and insights between farms, helping to facilitate learnings.

One of the requests for those signing up to the group is a commitment to carbon reduction in their production and an annual carbon footprint assessment.

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Supported by the retailer, many farmers involved have already started making progress, such as reducing soy in feed and replacing with alternatives like maize, as well as making moves towards renewable energy, including the use of solar panels and heat pumps.

Sainsbury’s director of agriculture, aquaculture and horticulture Gavin Hodgson said: “We know how important eggs are for our customers but we’re also aware of the challenges facing egg farmers, such as increased production costs and sustainability targets.

“We’re proud of our history in innovating and supporting the egg industry and our strong relationships with suppliers is the key to making change.

“Last year we moved from one year to five year partnerships with our egg supply base to give them confidence in their businesses. The new Sainsbury’s Egg Group aims to further support farmers, helping shift to more sustainable and resilient production.”

It comes as Sainsbury’s became the first retailer in the world to invest in new AI veterinary technology used to measure and enhance positive animal welfare on dairy farms in July.

The tech, which the grocer said could “revolutionise” cattle care, is being trialled in partnership with Vet Vision AI – a new spinout company from the University of Nottingham.