A series of studies will examine how battery cages affect egg-laying chickens. One three-year study, led by Peter Skewes of Clemson University, will compare the behaviors of egg-laying chickens kept in different housing systems. Skewes says the research, funded by the US Department of Agriculture, will introduce scientific facts to the emotional debate between egg producers and animal-welfare activists. However, some animal-welfare groups fear this investigation will delay the ban of battery cages, which they say is a simple solution. Egg producers argue that chickens are healthier if they are kept inside. Other studies, funded by the American Egg Board and advised by Cargill and McDonald’s, will look at differences in environmental impact, food quality, and egg prices between caged and cage-free hens.