Egg prices hit record high amid supply shortage
The price of eggs in Belgium has reached an all-time high. Farmers now receive 0.1752 euros per egg, according to figures from the national pricing commission in Kruisem. This marks a significant increase from last week’s price of 0.1686 euros.
Egg prices are set weekly in Kruisem, East Flanders, and the latest rise reflects ongoing global supply issues. Increased demand in the run-up to Easter, combined with shortages caused by avian flu outbreaks in the US and Eastern Europe, has pushed prices even higher.
Belgium has not been spared from the crisis, with 14 cases of bird flu recorded across the country since the start of the year, including outbreaks on poultry farms. The virus has also been detected in wild birds and, for the first time, in domestic cats.
Fewer farms
The figures represent the price paid to farmers; supermarket prices are typically much higher. Consumers have already seen rising costs for eggs on shop shelves, and further price increases are expected.
Experts warn that the prices may continue to rise for a while. Aside from bird flu, long-term challenges in the poultry sector persist. Strict nitrogen and animal welfare regulations in Belgium and the Netherlands have led to a decline in poultry farms, reducing supply.
Farmers have also raised concerns about unfair competition from imported eggs, which are often produced under lower environmental and welfare standards.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO DAVID PINTENS
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