Chicken and Egg Prices Surge Sharply as Supply Drops in Karnataka

Consumers and restaurant owners are feeling the impact of a sharp increase in chicken and egg prices as poultry production declines across parts of Karnataka. The price surge has become more noticeable at the beginning of the Ashada season, with traders expecting the trend to continue for at least another one or two months.

Kolar district, one of the state’s major poultry producing regions, has witnessed a steep rise in both wholesale and retail prices over the past two weeks. A wholesale egg is now selling for around Rs 7, while retail prices have climbed to between Rs 8 and Rs 8.50 per egg. Chicken prices have also jumped considerably, increasing from around Rs 180 to Rs 200 per kilogram to nearly Rs 280 to Rs 300 per kilogram.

Industry representatives attribute the price hike to reduced production at poultry farms. Unpredictable weather conditions and disease outbreaks affecting birds have lowered the supply of both eggs and chicken, creating an imbalance between production and market demand.

Kolar has more than 250 poultry farms along with several large egg producing units. A significant share of the district’s poultry products is supplied to markets outside Karnataka. However, the recent fall in production has tightened supplies, pushing prices upward across the region.

Traders believe egg prices could rise even further if production does not improve soon. Market estimates suggest that the retail price of a single egg may touch Rs 9 or even Rs 10 in the coming weeks. Chicken prices are also expected to remain firm until supply stabilises.

With demand continuing to outpace production, consumers, hotels, and food businesses are likely to face higher costs in the near future. Industry experts say prices may ease only after poultry farms recover production levels and the supply chain returns to normal.