Chicken

Tips for an Animal-Friendly Easter

Some beloved Easter traditions may entail animal-suffering

Easter is a time of celebration, and for many, eggs are at the heart of the festivities. Whether baked into treats, decorated in bright colours, or enjoyed as chocolate goodies, eggs have become a central symbol of this season. From Easter biscuits to the iconic Easter Bunny, it's hard to imagine the holiday season without them. In fact, egg consumption rises sharply in the days leading up to Easter. For many families, colourful eggs are an essential part of the celebration and almost a tradition that feels impossible to skip.

But behind this seasonal surge lies a global industry that continues to expand year after year. China leads the world in egg production, accounting for more than a third of global output and housing over 40% of the world’s hens. It is followed by the United States and India.1 What many people don’t realise is that not all eggs sold in supermarkets are produced locally. A significant portion is imported. For example, Germany relied on imports for over a quarter of its egg consumption in 2023.2 

This makes it especially important to pay attention to where your eggs come from. Ready-to-eat options, such as pre-cooked or dyed eggs, are often sourced from countries where animal welfare laws may be limited or poorly enforced.

How can I make Easter more animal-friendly?

Dye your own 'eggs'

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Dye your own 'eggs'


Try dyeing locally sourced eggs yourself, ensuring they are not from caged hens. Additionally, there are widely available faux eggs made from plastic or ceramic. They are just as fun and pretty to paint without any cruelty.

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Reduce, Refine, Replace

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Reduce, Refine, Replace


Buy products from better husbandry, gradually reduce animal products or replace them with plant-based products. Especially at Easter, there is an exciting range of delicious recipes for which no chicken has to suffer and no chick has to die. Read more.

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Never gift animals

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Animals are not presents


Each and every year, thousands of rabbits are bought as 'gifts' during Easter, only to be abandoned later. Having a pet is a long-term, expensive commitment, and is not a decision to be taken lightly. Why not sponsor an animal, or donate to an animal organisation instead!

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Animal-safe Easter bonfires

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Be careful with Easter bonfires


Many countries celebrate with a traditional Easter fire – but it is important to be cautious. In spring, most wild animals begin to raise their offspring & look for a suitable shelter – which can be piles of wood already piled up for planned Easter fires. Find out how to protect animals from Easter bonfires.

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Caution, chocolate!

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Keep chocolate away from pets


Unfortunately, the danger of eating chocolate for pets is still underestimated. Chocolate contains theobromine, an ingredient that can be deadly for dogs and cats. Keep the chocolate eggs and treats far our of the reach of pets!

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Chickens

See More Guides for Animal Lovers


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Source

1. Egg Production Global (accessed 15.04.2025) https://www.compassioninfoodbusiness.com/media/7455153/review-of-global-egg-production-2023.pdf
2. US egg shortage: Does Europe have any to spare? (accessed 15.04.2025) https://www.dw.com/en/us-egg-shortage-does-europe-have-any-to-spare/a-71968918

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