Poultry stockpiled as consumption plummets

EU - Consumption of poultry meat has dropped by more than half in some EU states, with 300,000 tonnes now in storage across the bloc, according to EU estimates.

While the glut pushes down the price of poultry for processors, it is also a sign that the public continues to stay away from the meat with the continuing advancement of avian influenza in Europe. So far 13 EU member states have reported bird flu in the wild. This includes France and Germany, where infections in domesticated poultry occurred.

Since the beginning of the recent avian flu crisis, consumption of poultry and eggs has fallen dramatically in some member states, leading to a sharp reduction in prices.

In a bid to hold up falling prices for poultry in the EU, the European Commission has proposed additional aid for chicken producers.

At the EU Agriculture Council meeting on 25 April in Luxembourg, a proposal for a regulation on exceptional market support measures tabled on 29 March will be adopted, stated the Internet site of the Austrian EU presidency.

The planning measures to reduce production and to make payment for stocks. There are no plans concerning private stocks or food aid.

The European Parliament already gave an assurance of its support on 8 April, subject to certain amendments. The main differences of opinion concern whether the EU should fund only 50 per cent of the compensation, as the Commission proposes.

The European Parliament, some countries in the south of the EU and some new members states want 100 per cent compensation.

Source: Food Production Daily