Winter pushes non-veg prices past ₹1,000: Meat and egg rates soar as demand peaks

Cold weather cravings drive up demand for mutton, chicken, and eggs, while limited supply and animal health concerns push prices sharply higher.

Winter has delivered an unexpected jolt to non-vegetarian consumers, with prices of mutton, chicken, and eggs witnessing a steep rise across markets. What was once considered affordable protein has now become significantly costlier, leaving many households worried about their food budgets.

Mutton prices have seen the sharpest increase. Earlier sold in the range of ₹650 to ₹750 per kilogram, mutton is now priced between ₹900 and ₹1,000 per kilogram. Chicken, another winter favourite, has also become more expensive. Rates that once hovered around ₹250 per kilogram have climbed to ₹280–₹300. Eggs have not been spared either, with prices rising from ₹5.50 per egg to nearly ₹7.10–₹8 per egg.

The price surge is largely driven by seasonal consumption patterns. During winter, more people turn to non-vegetarian food to stay warm, especially dishes like bone soup, chicken curry, and mutton-based meals. This seasonal preference has pushed demand sharply upward.

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However, supply has failed to match this spike. Livestock growth slows during colder months, reducing the availability of goats and sheep in the market. Farmers also tend to limit the sale of animals during this period. Adding to the challenge, winter is a season when diseases spread faster among animals, affecting overall livestock health and further reducing meat supply.

This imbalance between rising demand and restricted supply has directly impacted prices. Even poultry and egg markets are feeling the strain, as higher consumption combined with production constraints has pushed rates upward.

For now, consumers are left adjusting their food choices as winter continues to keep non-veg prices elevated.

Price Comparison Snapshot:

•    Mutton:
o    Earlier: ₹650–₹750 per kg
o    Now: ₹900–₹1,000 per kg
•    Chicken:
o    Earlier: ₹250 per kg
o    Now: ₹280–₹300 per kg
•    Eggs:
o    Earlier: ₹5.50 per egg
o    Now: ₹7.10–₹8 per egg

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Why Are Non-Veg Prices Rising?

•    Higher consumption of non-veg food during winter
•    Increased demand for soups, biryani, and meat-based dishes
•    Limited supply compared to rising demand
•    Slower growth of goats and sheep in cold weather
•    Reduced animal sales during winter months
•    Faster spread of animal diseases, affecting market supply