Avian flu: SAPA to import liquid and powdered eggs to reduce shortages

The Avian flu outbreak has caused severe egg shortages across South Africa. In response to the outbreak, Dr Abongile Balarane, CEO of the South African Poultry Association’s (SAPA) Egg Division, stated on Monday in an interview that SAPA is fast-tracking the importation of liquid and powdered eggs for industrial use. This could be good news for consumers as SAPA announced that the substitution of liquid and powdered eggs for industrial use can bring eggs back to retail shelves.

The avian flu outbreak has taken a toll on small and large businesses in South Africa. So far, according to Balarane, over 2.5 million broiler breeders and over 5 million layer hens were culled due to the disease.

ALSO READ: Limpopo ready to tackle Avian Flu outbreak

Avian flu: When will eggs return to retail shelves?

The SAPA is trying to fast-track the importation of powdered and liquid eggs as the festive season approaches. It has, however, not confirmed when retailers will see eggs on the shelf. With avian flu estimated to affect around 30% of the local egg industry, Balarane predicted a timeframe of 17 to 18 months to restock farms.

How bad is avian flu in South Africa?

Over 5 million chickens have been culled due to the severe outbreak of avian flu across the country. Dr Balarane said in a podcast that there could be an additional 3.5 million chickens culled: we suspect that there could be additional cases once they’re confirmed, of course, by the government and all the processes that need to be adhered to.

ALSO READ: AVIAN FLU: DA calls on govt to assist farmers

Are eggs safe to eat in South Africa?

Although the avian flu continues, the SAPA confirmed that eggs and chicken from retail shelves are safe to eat. The general manager of SAPA stated that all HPAI-positive sites are disposed of on-site, meaning consumers can be rest assured that all eggs and chicken being sold to them are free of the disease.

Importation of powdered and liquid eggs to help the industry

The local egg market has suffered immensely due to the egg shortages. With the importation of liquid and powdered eggs for industrial use, consumers can once again have access to table eggs. We can only hope this will end the current high egg prices that South Africans are currently facing, too.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Farmers advised to stay vigilant towards avian flu [Video]