Spurt in poultry prices; 22% surge in one week

Hyderabad: In the last one week the poultry prices have gone up by 22 per cent. Until May 5, the price for a kilo of dressed chicken was Rs 180 but now it is Rs 220. Speaking to The Hans India, D Sudhakar, executive committee member of National Egg Co-Ordination Committee, said, "The prices have nothing to do with season.

Although it plays a minor role in the production costs, it is not the defining factor for increase in price." He further added, "Since chicken is live commodity, the prices will always fluctuate. The current rate is a fair trade for the farmers who breed the birds and sell them."

However, the sharp increase in feed prices (maize, soybean meal) this year plus the increase in mortality rate of birds due to day-night temperature differences in summer may be the reason for the hike in prices.

Commenting on the fluctuating prices of chicken, Mohammed Abid, owner of a local meat shop, said, "The prices have always fluctuated and they always average around 190-200 per kg. Our customers have never complained." There also seem to be no effect on the local chicken haleem vendors. Riyaz, a local haleem seller, said "Haleem is a favoured dish during Ramadan and since it's a yearly event, we are always prepared for it. We can feed 10 people for every kilo of chicken used in haleem."

Meanwhile, the egg prices have remained considerably lower. Sudhakar said, "In summer, the consumption and production rates of eggs are low and thus, the farmer price per egg ideally should be 4 Rs and 50p. But due to market trade manipulation, the current price has stopped at 3 rupees and 65 paise." 

By Mounica Alamuri