We make every effort to purchase "cage free" eggs, that is eggs hatched from chickens which are allowed to roam free. I used to buy eggs from a local resident who had her own chickens. Since that opportunity is no longer available, I have taken to buying eggs which are labeled as hatched from "cage free" chickens as a second best. I miss buying them straight from "the farm" and hope to once again find such a source. There is a difference in the quality of egg as well as a greater confidence in the care of the animals. I have not chosen to give up the use of eggs and continue to find them a very necessary ingredient in our kitchen.