Kochi: Hotel owners in the state are facing a severe crisis as the price of broiler chicken has witnessed a staggering surge. Within a span of just 10 days, the price per kilogram skyrocketed from Rs 70-75 to the current rate of Rs 250.

Consequently, the cost of chicken-based dishes has started to rise in numerous hotels, with prices increasing from Rs 10-30, depending on the specific dish. Popular chicken items such as biryani, curries, Al-faham, and shawarma have seen a noticeable price hike. However, members of the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA) have collectively decided to refrain from increasing their prices at this time.

The surge in chicken prices has hit non-vegetarian hotels particularly hard, as chicken dishes are in high demand. Hotels that typically cook an average of 40 kilograms of chicken per day now face an expense of around Rs 8,000.

The financial burden increases accordingly for hotels that rely more heavily on chicken. The cost of chicken biryani, one of the most sought-after dishes during lunch hours, currently ranges from Rs 150-220, with some places offering even lower prices. Curry dishes start at Rs 100.

The recent trawling ban, which will result in a decrease in fish availability, will further increase the demand for chicken. As a consequence, the price of chicken may continue to rise in the near future.

Where is ‘Kerala Chicken’?

The 'Kerala Chicken' project, launched with the aim of providing broiler chicken at a more affordable price than the general market, has fallen short of its intended objectives. The project involved Kudumbashree, KEPCO, Brahmagiri Meat Processing Factory, and Meat Products of India as nodal agencies. However, Brahmagiri has withdrawn its support. Hence, the chicken market in Kerala is predominantly in the hands of Tamil Nadu.

The KHRA is calling for government intervention to address the rising chicken prices in Kerala.