Unusual price hike: Kerala consumers face rising costs for chicken and eggs

Kottayam: Prices of chicken and eggs have risen sharply in Kerala, defying the usual trend of price drops during the Christmas and Mandala festival season, traders said.

Over the past month, the retail price of chicken meat has increased by around Rs 45 per kg, climbing to about Rs 165 per kg. Egg prices have also gone up to Rs 8 per egg, compared to Rs 6–6.50 in November.

Typically, demand for chicken and eggs declines during the Mandala festive period and fasting period, leading to lower prices. However, traders said prices have been increasing almost daily, putting pressure on households as well as the hotel and food services sector.

Chicken was sold at Rs 118–120 per kg in early December, crossed Rs 145 during Christmas, and has continued to rise since then. Hoteliers said the sustained price increase has significantly affected operating costs.

Wholesalers attributed the surge primarily to the rising cost of chicks and a drop in local poultry production. Chicks that earlier cost Rs 35–40 are now priced at around Rs 50, pushing up overall production expenses.

The large-scale export of eggs from Tamil Nadu to states including Andhra Pradesh has further tightened supply, contributing to higher prices. In addition, increased cake production during the festive season has driven up demand for eggs.

Traders said that despite the seasonal decline in consumption, prices have not shown any signs of easing, raising concerns that rates may remain high in the coming weeks.

Change in rates