The association’s László Végh told the paper that bird flu was affecting breeders in the European Union and in Hungary, and territorial and transport restrictions were causing them difficulties. Further, the stock of chickens has been culled by 10 percent.

As it is there is usually a drop in the number of eggs on the market in January as breeders replace their stock, but there are normally ways to make up for the shortfall such as by accumulating stock in the period after Christmas. This year, however, demand has remained high.

Given that egg imports are also affected due to bird flu in other parts of Europe, a dearth of eggs could result in upward pressure on prices.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.