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Winter demand drives egg prices up by 25–50%
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Saturday, 03 January, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Abhitash Singh, Mumbai
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Egg prices across several parts of the country have surged by 25 to 50 per cent, driven primarily by a sharp rise in winter demand, higher consumption patterns, and increased input costs for poultry farmers, industry sources said.
With the onset of winter, egg consumption traditionally increases due to its perceived health benefits and higher demand from households, bakeries, hotels and institutional buyers. This seasonal spike, coupled with limited short-term supply elasticity, has pushed prices upward in wholesale as well as retail markets.
Poultry traders said prices in major consuming centres such as Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru have seen a steady upward trend over the past few weeks. In some markets, retail prices have crossed Rs 8–10 per egg, depending on quality and location, compared to Rs 5–6 during the previous months.
Apart from seasonal demand, rising production costs have added pressure on prices. Feed prices, particularly maize and soybean meal, remain elevated, significantly impacting farmers’ cost structures. Higher transportation costs and increased electricity expenses during winter have further contributed to the price rise.
Industry representatives pointed out that supply remains tight as many small and medium poultry farmers reduced flock sizes earlier due to low realisations and higher input costs. The lag between restocking and egg production has limited the ability of farmers to immediately respond to the demand surge.
Traders expect prices to remain firm through the peak winter months, with demand likely to stay strong until late January or early February. However, prices may stabilise once temperatures rise and fresh supplies enter the market.
Officials said the government is monitoring the situation, though eggs are not subject to direct price controls. Any significant moderation in feed prices or improvement in supply could ease prices in the coming weeks.
For now, consumers may have to brace for higher egg prices, even as the poultry industry hopes for better margins after months of subdued returns.
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