Imported eggs are under suspicion after a series of linked Salmonella cases over the summer, prompting NFU Scotland to issue fresh guidance urging consumers to choose UK and Scottish eggs.
Between May and October 2025, 123 confirmed cases of Salmonella Enteritidis were reported across Britain, including two in Scotland, with investigations linking several cases to a single distributor of imported eggs.
The investigation involved the UK Health Security Agency, the Food Standards Agency, Public Health Scotland, Food Standards Scotland, and the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
NFU Scotland says the incidents underline long standing concerns about imported food not being held to the same safety and quality standards as domestic production.
The union argues this creates unnecessary risks for consumers and undermines UK and Scottish producers who operate under strict regulatory systems.
NFU Scotland Poultry Chair Robert Thompson said:
“These outbreaks highlight why UK and Scottish eggs are the safest in the world.
“They all undergo strict Salmonella testing, and the majority also carry the Lion Code Stamp, adding additional assurance of compliance with UK enhanced safety standards.
“Imported eggs, largely entering the wholesale and food service sectors, do not meet the same rigorous requirements, creating unnecessary risks for public health.”
NFU Scotland says all UK commercial egg producers must comply with national Salmonella testing standards, with many also participating in the Lion Code Scheme.
The Lion Code Scheme is the UK’s most comprehensive egg safety standard and includes enhanced testing, traceability and welfare requirements.
Analysis of own label eggs sold through major retailers during 2025 shows 77% were Scottish and 23% British, identifiable by a UK or SCO prefix on the shell stamp, with most carrying the Lion Code mark.
In contrast, imported eggs are more commonly found in wholesale markets, food service outlets and smaller independent shops.
NFU Scotland says these eggs are often cheaper, not always clearly labelled, and produced to lower standards than those required in the UK.
The union warns that this poses a growing risk as the UK continues to move away from colony cage production.
As domestic production of lower cost eggs declines, NFU Scotland says pressure is increasing on suppliers to source cheaper imported eggs.
The union believes this trend risks allowing more eggs of lower quality and higher Salmonella risk into the food chain.
In response, NFU Scotland has issued updated consumer guidance aimed at helping people make informed choices.
Consumers are being advised to check shell stamps for UK or Scottish origin, particularly when shopping in independent retailers.
NFU Scotland is also encouraging shoppers to look for the Lion Code Stamp where possible, while noting that all UK and Scottish eggs must meet national Salmonella testing requirements.
When eating out, consumers are being urged to ask where eggs are sourced and to insist on UK or Scottish eggs.
The union is also calling for greater transparency in egg labelling within the food service sector and stronger checks on eggs supplied through wholesale markets.
NFU Scotland says its overarching position remains unchanged.
All imported food, it argues, should be required to meet the same high safety and quality standards as domestic production.
