The ongoing monsoon fishing ban along the coast has caused a sharp decline in fish availability, prompting a significant surge in egg consumption across coastal Karnataka. This spike in demand has pushed egg prices higher, especially due to the region’s low local egg production.
The annual deep-sea fishing ban during June and July restricts fresh fish supply, leading residents—who typically rely on seafood—to seek alternative protein sources. While a few boats still operate, their catch remains limited. Frozen fish from states like Kerala and Odisha are available, but often not favoured by local consumers. The rising cost of fish during the monsoon has further contributed to this shift.
Eggs, being a widely accepted protein alternative, are now in greater demand. This seasonal trend is compounded by institutional bulk purchases for school midday meal programs, anganwadis, and pregnant women, following school reopenings. This dual pressure—public and institutional—has disrupted the supply-demand balance.
On Tuesday, eggs were priced at ₹6.60 each in the wholesale market and ₹7 to ₹7.50 in retail. Prices have risen steadily over the last fortnight, traders noted.
The coastal region’s humid climate is unsuitable for large-scale poultry farming. Only two small producers exist—in Mandarthi and Bhatkal—making local supply insufficient. Most eggs are brought in from Hosapete, Davanagere, and Mysuru.
Veterinary Board member Dr. Sushanth Rai Bellippadi expressed hope that prices would ease during Aashada, a period of reduced non-vegetarian consumption, and drop further once fresh fish returns in August.