Taco Bell is going cage-free for its eggs, which is going to be implemented in all of its over 6,000 U.S locations by December 31, 2016.

The new move is said to be part of a new menu initiative, the Taco Bell press release (via its website) states:

"Brand on target to fulfill goal to remove artificial colors and flavors; Deepens pledge to meet consumers' desire for simplicity, transparency and choice."

Taco Bell joins other companies - McDonald's, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, and Panera to name a few - on using eggs produced by chickens at are allowed to roam free outside of its cages.

Not only that, but what actually makes the announcement highly commendable is the fact that it's going to be the first fast food chain to make the change throughout the country. Eater reports:

"What makes Taco Bell's announcement particularly noteworthy is its timeline: It will become the first fast-food chain to implement the change nationwide. Other chains are rolling their programs out gradually, though many have made bold announcements in recent months." 

Taco Bell will be working with its strategic partner to make the move to cage-free eggs within 12 months. The company's eggs will be labeled as "American Humane Certified" based on the production standards as set by the American Humane Association.

Furthermore, Taco Bell Corp. CEO Brian Niccol issued this statement regarding the changes:

"We are a brand that has our finger on the pulse of not only what appeals to our customers' tastes but also the issues they care most about, and they tell us they want food that's simple and easy to understand. [...] Implementing this change at record pace underscores that we are always listening and responding to our customers, while doing what is right for our business."

The Humane Society approximates that about 500,000 hens will be affected by the movement while supply chains work to better improve the conditions for the chickens.