Are South African eggs safe? Minister Didiza answers
South Africa’s Agriculture Department hints at a fascinating shift in egg dynamics, challenging the notion of panic buying.
The South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development reassures the public that egg stocks are on a steady path to recovery, emphasising the unnecessary nature of panic buying at this time.
The department continues its longstanding practice of importing various poultry products, including eggs, from countries such as Brazil, the USA, and Argentina.
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Importantly, they clarify their role, stating that they focus on conducting biosecurity risk assessments when importers apply for permits rather than dictating specific import sources for South African retailers.
AVIAN INFLUENZA OUTBREAK IS UNDER CONTROL
Minister Thoko Didiza expresses contentment that the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak is under control, highlighting that 70% of farms unaffected by the virus are maintaining egg and chicken production.
Looking ahead, Minister Didiza anticipates a return to normalcy early next year and signals a willingness to import more eggs if required.
As the festive season approaches in December, recent imports include 9 million fertilized eggs, 37,802 tons of day-old chicks, 62 metric tons of egg products, and 30,986 metric tons of poultry meat.
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HOW MANY EGGS ARE FERTILIZED?
“We have increased fertilized eggs from 1.9 million to 9 million in less than one month. These eggs will be chickens in less than four months,” said Didiza.
Underscoring a significant rise in fertilized eggs and the swift timeline for their transformation into chickens.
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This proactive approach aims to meet demands and ensure a stable supply of poultry products for the public.