Delegates heard that despite the recent difficult trading years, egg sales increased by seven per cent to €87 million in 2012, while the value of chicken sales remained steady at €180 million.

In Ireland, consumption of poultry meat accounts for 33 per cent of total meat consumed and at 25.7kg per capita per annum, Ireland represents one of the highest levels of consumption across Europe.

Irish shoppers currently spend €85 million per year on eggs (165 eggs per capita each year) with 54 per cent buying eggs every week, an increase of 11 per cent on last year.

Despite the increased sales, the outlook for the sector is challenging for the remainder of 2012 and into next year mainly due to high feed costs.

While the poultry sector is generally less affected than other primary sectors by the economic recession; the increase in feed costs has had an impact.

Speaking at the event Aidan Cotter, Chief Executive, Bord Bia said: “Many changes have taken place across the industry in recent times, from a changeover to the new laying hen welfare standards to the dramatic rise in input costs. However, this sector is possibly the most dynamic in terms of evolving and meeting the challenges it faces today.”