Target Scrambles to Line Up New Egg Suppliers

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Target Corp. is scrambling to line up new egg suppliers before Thanksgiving after ending its relationship with a company accused of allowing animal cruelty at farms in three states.

Shortages of eggs have been reported at some Target stores as far away as Chicago and North Carolina after Minneapolis-based Target quit doing business with Sparboe Farms. The Litchfield-based egg producer was the subject of an undercover video showing mistreatment of hens and chicks that even Sparboe describes as sickening.

McDonald's and other major customers also have cut Sparboe off, but Target appears hardest hit by shortages.

The retailer sold Sparboe eggs under the Sparboe brand and under the Target brands Market Pantry and Archer Farms.

Spokeswoman Jessica Carlson says Target is working diligently to get eggs back into its stores.