Visakhapatnam: Eggs and poultry chicken have become more expensive in parts of Andhra Pradesh, with traders attributing the price hike to increased demand, decreased supply, higher transportation costs, and rising feed prices.
Price Surge in a Week
The price of a dozen eggs has risen by Rs 8 to 10 within a week, and poultry chicken prices have also increased by Rs 20 to 30 per kilogram in many markets across the state. A dozen eggs are now selling for Rs 84 to Rs 90, compared to Rs 72 to Rs 78 a week ago, according to K Naidu, a trader in Visakhapatnam city.
Broiler chicken prices have spiked in markets across Visakhapatnam. The price of a dressed broiler chicken in Madhurawada reached Rs 270 per kilogram on Sunday (June 14), up from Rs 240 per kilogram the previous week. Some markets in Visakhapatnam sold broiler chicken at even higher rates.
Reasons Behind the Price Rise
Traders attributed the price rise to the usual summer decline in broiler chicken demand, but noted that the current increase is contrary to typical seasonal trends. They added that demand has risen due to rainfall in some areas, while supply has declined because of high mortality among birds in May. The hike in transportation costs, driven by rising diesel and petrol prices, is another contributing factor.
Hot and humid weather conditions have caused birds to reduce their food intake, leading to a drop in egg production. The heat also resulted in the death of many birds between May 26 and June 5, widening the gap between demand and supply of eggs and broiler chicken.
Country Chicken Prices Remain High
Demand for country chicken has remained steady despite the weather. The price of dressed country chicken ranges between Rs 900 and Rs 1,000 per kilogram, depending on the bird's size, said Mohan, a meat trader in Visakhapatnam.
