He told the Express yesterday: "The high demand is very irregular for this season. In years gone by, chicken sales have dropped significantly nearing Divali but this year it has risen. Producers did not expect this and therefore were caught off guard."

He said the recent slate of election activities which had people out and about may have caused the increased demand for the birds.

Phillips said there was no shortage but said poultry producers were working at full capacity to meet the needs of consumers.

"Even with the November 5 price increase on chicken usually sold to hotels and restaurants, chicken is still cheaper than most other meats so people are opting for the cheaper choice," he said.