A petition calling for cage-free eggs reached Plataran Ubud Resort in Bali on Aug. 10 via an unusual delivery: 10 activists arriving on 10 motorcycles.
The peaceful protest was about more than a single ingredient. It also raised questions about whether a company that promotes an eco-friendly image is making supply-chain decisions that match that branding.
Here’s what to know
Activists are pressing Plataran to adopt cage-free eggs throughout its operations. BeritaBali, as cited by Bali Discovery, said the effort will continue after the resort demonstration with a monthlong Bali tour focused on areas near Plataran properties.
Plataran’s business spans 81 locations in Indonesia and Japan, including hotels and resorts, event venues, restaurants, real estate, private yachts, and national park operations.
Campaigners say Indonesia’s egg sector is still predominantly cage-based, with hens commonly kept in production for about 63 weeks. They argue that these systems stop birds from doing basic behaviors such as flapping their wings, nesting, dust-bathing, perching, and interacting.
More background
Public health concerns were also part of the message. Activists cited a 2019 report by the European Food Safety Authority that found Salmonella more often in confined cage systems than in cage-free systems, Bali Discovery reported.
They also pointed to research from Universitas Gadjah Mada that found antibiotic-resistant Salmonella in supermarket eggs from caged-hen systems.
Campaign materials also cited a University of Queensland School of Veterinary Science study from the Center for Animal Welfare and Ethics, which found that farming systems shape consumer egg preferences, second only to price.
The dispute also raises questions about corporate branding and sustainability messaging, including greenwashing.
What’s being done?
Activists say they have already spent years trying to move Plataran through direct engagement. Elfha Shavira, Campaigns Lead for Act for Farmed Animals, said: “We have been in contact with Plataran since 2024. We hope that the meetings held with Plataran stakeholders at their headquarters, combined with various advocacy efforts in Jakarta, will lead to a positive decision. However, to date, there has been no progress regarding their cage-free egg policy.”
Organizers say the petition delivery and the monthlong motorcycle tour are intended to keep attention on the issue while they await a company decision.
Campaigners argue that a commitment from Plataran would not be out of step with the broader market. Shavira noted that 110 Indonesian companies have already made cage-free commitments and said that a business serving international markets should not lag behind.
As Elfha said, the campaign is ultimately about consistency between branding and business practices: “Plataran promotes an eco-friendly, sustainable image that should encompass animal welfare and public health. It is time for Plataran to align its practices by announcing a cage-free commitment.”
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