A survey by the British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) concluded that the UK’s egg supply and the “long-term future” of the industry is under threat.
The BFREPA survey found that 33% of free range egg producers had either reduced chicken flock sizes, paused production temporarily or left the industry completely amid “huge hikes” in production costs.
More than six in 10 (63.7%) eggs bought in the UK in 2021 were free range, according to statistics from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
163 free range egg producers took the survey and many said they do not see a long-term future in the industry.
“Feeding hens is now at least 50% more expensive than it was, and energy prices have soared in the same way that consumers have seen their domestic bills rise,” said the BFREPA.
“Spending on fuel has grown by 30%, while labour and packaging also costs more. Many of our members are losing money on every egg laid, and our data shows that even those who are making a small profit do not see a long-term future.
“Fewer hens means fewer eggs and we warned in March that eggs could be in short supply by Christmas. Egg supply naturally tightens at this time of year as businesses and individuals prepare for Christmas, which may be exacerbating the situation.
“On top of this, avian influenza (bird flu) has resulted in the culling of laying hens too. We need to see farmers paid a sustainable price to restore confidence and optimism to the sector.”
