Rembrandt Foods, Spirit Lake, Iowa, announced plans to build a fully dedicated cage-free egg production site in Lake Preston, S.D. The facility expansion will initially house approximately 3 million cage-free layers in planned phases, and will have on-site breaking equipment with further growth planned.

The site was selected for its central location, access to feed and biosecurity benefits. Construction will begin in 2016, with the first hens introduced in 2017.

“We look forward to becoming a part of the local community and building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships in this agricultural region,” says Jonathan Spurway, vice president of marketing.

The site will significantly expand the existing cage-free egg production and processing capacity of Rembrandt Foods, which produces liquid egg products, frozen egg products and refrigerated ready-to-use, extended shelf life, liquid egg products, among other items.

“We recognize the growing consumer demand for cage-free eggs and egg products, and as a leader in this industry, we are committed to supporting our customers’ cage-free needs,” says Dave Rettig, president.  “The Lake Preston operation reflects our interest in a cage-free future, and we are excited to make this investment.”