Doreen Egg has paid $39,600 in penalties after the ACCC issued two infringement notices for alleged false or misleading claims that its eggs were free-range.
The egg producer admits to selling eggs labelled as ‘free range’ despite the hens not having access to an outdoor range, as required under Free Range Egg Labelling Information Standard.
More than 8600 cartons of the mislabelled eggs were sold in May and June 2025 through two wholesalers, 30 small retailers and direct farm-gate sales.
Doreen Egg also admits selling eggs in cartons displaying the Australian Eggs logo, suggesting the business had sponsorship or approval from the organisation when it didn’t.
“Consumers often seek out and pay a premium for free-range eggs, so they need to be confident the eggs meet the legal definition of being ‘free range’,” says ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh.
“Egg producers must ensure their farming practices match what their labels tell consumers.
“The ACCC will continue to monitor the market to ensure free-range claims are truthful and accurate, and will take action where necessary.”
In a court enforceable undertaking given to the ACCC, Doreen Egg admitted it engaged in conduct likely to contravene the Australian Consumer Law.
To prevent future mislabelling, Doreen Egg has also committed to:
- Inform consumers about its misrepresentations
- Independently review its compliance processes
- Update packaging and traceability systems
- Conduct further staff training
Doreen Egg is a small egg producer based in Doreen, Victoria. It operates a four-shed farm and produces caged, cage-free and free-range eggs, which it sells through wholesalers, small retailers (including local Foodworks and IGA), and at the farm gate.
