Egg prices are likely to remain buoyant in the near-term as summer takes its toll on production in tandem with an increase in demand typical for the season, say NECC representatives.
In the major production centre in Namakkal, layer egg output is down by about 10-15 per cent a day. Normally, for this biggest production centre, it is about 3.25-3.40 crore eggs a day.
Farm-gate price of egg is ₹3.75 a piece in the Namakkal zone, which covers Tamil Nadu, as compared with last month’s average price of ₹3.18. This trend is reflected in other major centres.
NECC representatives said the annual fishing ban which extends up to about two months results in seafood prices increasing. This generally drives up poultry demand. Also, during the vacation season, household purchases go up. Egg prices could remain stable though major hikes are not likely.