Poultry sector poised for growth

Egg producers face a promising future, with global demand set to expand and the product meeting many consumer requirements in terms of nutrition, value and health.

Addressing the recent International Egg Commission conference in Paris, French industry consultant Pierre le Roy explained that eggs had already enjoyed rapid growth globally over the last 20 years, with a 37% increase in per capita consumption.

But, with population growth continuing to accelerate and incomes in developing countries also increasing, the upside for continued expansion was considerable.

China and India in particular were set for a return to double-digit economic growth, and this would impact on the demand for animal protein.

Eggs in particular were set to benefit, not least because it was one of the cheapest forms of animal protein available. “Consumers are interested in cheaper food products and eggs have the best quality to price ratio going,” said Mr le Roy.

Furthermore, eggs were consumable as a starter, a main course or a dessert and were not banned by any religion, unlike pork or beef. Egg production also carried a low carbon footprint and enjoyed a better feed conversion ratio than other meats.

But above all, eggs came with a positive health connotation. “Japanese people eat a lot of eggs and have one of the highest life expectancies,” said Mr le Roy.

• For a comment from the conference, see Phil Clarke’s Business Blog