The 10 per cent drop in domestic production is due to the precautionary measures taken to ensure quality and safety after avian and fipronil cases in Europe, according to Coldiretti, as reported by Ansa.

European Supermarket Magazine reports that, as a result, over four million out of nearly 50 million laying hens have stopped production.

Consumption Patterns

Italians consume about 215 eggs per year on average, of which 140 are consumed as eggs and the remaining one-third in the form of pasta, sweets and other dishes.

Supply problems that have led to cases of empty shelves on supermarkets have resulted in a price hike.

In November, prices grew by 55.6 per cent to an average of €14.20 per 100 units, according to the latest from Ismea.

There have also been changes in the procurement habits of consumers, with an increased tendency to directly buy from breeders at farmers markets, as well as choose more organic or free-range products.