British supermarkets are taking different paths on egg color.
On June 6, 2026, Sainsbury's announced it will shift to white-shelled eggs, while Waitrose and Morrisons said they will keep offering brown eggs.
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Sainsbury's linked the change to its goal of net zero emissions by 2035.
The retailer said white eggs will "result in lower emissions and better welfare outcomes for the hens that lay them."
Waitrose disagreed that brown eggs must go.
A spokesman said the chain can "achieve high welfare and reduce our environmental impact at the same time."
Morrisons also confirmed it will keep brown eggs under its own brand to give shoppers choice.
Why the Split?
White eggs make up about three-quarters of the US market.
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But in Britain, shoppers have preferred brown eggs since the 1980s due to health perceptions, even though nutrition is identical.
Industry data shows white-egg hens have longer, more consistent laying cycles. That efficiency helps farmers facing pressure to lower supply chain emissions.
Will Lea, vice-chair of the National Farmers' Union poultry board, said white eggs are still a small part of UK sales despite rising domestic production.
"It will be interesting to see what opportunities this presents for the poultry sector in years to come," he said.
Lea noted that producers want to expand white egg volumes because of better hen performance. But success depends on consumer acceptance.
"The supply chain works collaboratively to ensure consumer acceptance," he added.
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British producers need clear market signals from retail contracts before adjusting flock management and farm investments. Sainsbury's move may provide that signal, but rivals are not following yet.
