Easter egg rollers should use potatoes, Peta says

Peta’s Call for Change

Animal welfare advocates are urging participants in Easter egg roll events to replace traditional eggs and chocolate eggs with potatoes. The suggestion aims to maintain the festive fun and cultural tradition while eliminating the ethical concerns tied to animal exploitation. Jennifer White, a representative from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), highlighted that using potatoes would “allow for the same celebration of new life without the cruelty inherent in egg production.”

Preston Council’s Response

Preston Council, which hosts the city’s longstanding egg-rolling event in Avenham Park, emphasized that the tradition does not mandate the use of specific eggs. The free event, scheduled for 6 April, will see thousands gather to roll decorated eggs down a hill. Council officials noted that while the activity originated in the 19th Century, modern participants often opt for chocolate eggs instead of hard-boiled ones. They stated that the event has been a staple for over 150 years, drawing approximately 30,000 visitors annually.

Why Potatoes?

White argued that the shift to potatoes would align with the ethos of Easter, which symbolizes rebirth. “Easter is about honoring new life,” she said, “but rolling eggs from an industry that sends billions of animals to their deaths while they’re still young contradicts that.” The charity also noted that potatoes are more affordable, environmentally sustainable, and nutritious. By adopting this alternative, the event could set a precedent for similar traditions nationwide, according to White.

“We know that Easter is all about celebrating new life and you simply can’t do that when you’re rolling eggs that come from an industry that sends billions of animals to their deaths while they’re still babies,” White explained. “By rolling potatoes, you get all of the fun and the tradition but just without the animal cruelty.”

Under UK law, egg production is governed by a code of practice established under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This act requires owners to ensure their animals have suitable environments, proper diets, and protection from distress. Despite these standards, Peta believes the tradition could be further refined to reduce animal suffering.

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