Egg price rises, while chicken price fall in Mangaluru

Mangaluru: This summer, eggs have become costlier, and chicken cheaper. Extreme heat leading to poor production of eggs has resulted in a price hike, according to wholesalers in the city.
On Thursday, the wholesale rate of eggs was Rs 5.2 per egg. The retail price is Rs 6; in some shops, it is Rs 6.5 per egg. In contrast, the chicken price, which should be high, has become cheaper. The current live bird price per kg is Rs 130, whereas during the same period in previous summers, it was around Rs 160. Lower production is said to be the reason for the egg price hike.
Alwyn Pinto, owner of Kanchana Ganga Trading and president of the DK Kannada Egg Suppliers Association, told TOI that usually, the egg prices drop during summer as not many consume them due to the heat. The price goes up only after the second week of May. However, this time it is increasing day by day. In the last two days alone, the price saw a big jump and is likely to reach Rs 6.5 (wholesale) in a few days if the production is not increased. The reason for the price hike is increased production costs, secondly, the extremely hot weather in some districts that produce eggs, such as Ballari. Thirdly, the recent bird flu impacted the chicken industry, where many stopped chicken farming. "Usually, egg consumption decreases during the summer months, as many avoid eggs due to concerns related to digestion and other health considerations. However, despite that, the price is high," he said.
On the other hand, the chicken price, which goes up during the summer, has seen a slump. Vincent Cutinha, managing director of Provit Food Private Limited and owner of Ideal Chicken, said that summer sees a price hike as production is low and demand is high. However, this time it is a different situation. Currently, the live bird per kg price is Rs 130, which is about Rs 160. Whereas with skin, the chicken rate is Rs 160, and deskinned is Rs 175 as of today. "We feel that this is the aftermath of the recent bird flu, where many have stopped consuming chicken meat. However, the meat is safe to consume and need not fear," he stressed.