Greek Easter lamb and goat meat are becoming increasingly scarce this year, with prices rising for consumers as a result of animal diseases. Bluetongue disease in sheep and goats and foot-and-mouth disease are creating market problems, resulting in a characteristic decrease in local lamb and kid supplies. Adding to these issues are limited imports from countries like Romania and Bulgaria, due to animal diseases in those regions as well. Starting prices in these countries reach €12/kg, driving up the final cost of traditional Easter spit-roast in Greece.
Livestock farmers hold firm on prices
Meanwhile, livestock farmers remain unwavering on prices, demanding at least €12 per kilo for lamb and goat. “More than any other year, Greek consumers will be searching for Greek lamb and kid this Easter,” Thomas Moschos, a member of the European Federation of Agricultural Associations, livestock farmer and president of the “Makednos” Agricultural Association, tells APE-MPE.
Livestock farmers claim the increases are necessary as production costs have skyrocketed. “The price must cover expenses and leave a small profit,” notes Stelios Armenis from Lagkadas.
Orders down significantly
Orders at butcher shops across the country were down 50% on Great Monday, according to the president of the Panhellenic Federation of Butcher Shop Owners, Savvas Kesidis. The drop in demand is accompanied by a reduction in quantities purchased by consumers, according to APE-MPE. According to him, this stance is attributed to household uncertainty. “If one million families buy one kilo less compared to last year, this equals 30% of Greece’s production,” he emphasizes.
Prices at Kapani and Central Market of Thessaloniki
Prices are elevated at Thessaloniki’s Kapani market. Prices for lamb and goat range from €13.50-15/kg, with professionals telling APE-MPE that an increase of up to €0.80/kg may occur in the coming days. Offal is sold from €6-7/kg and the total cost of magiritsa soup ingredients is estimated at around €24. For eggs, prices range from €1.90 to €3.95 per six-pack, while dyed ones are available from €2.60 to €4.20 per six-pack. Regarding tsoureki bread, it costs approximately €16/kg, while large chocolate eggs reach up to €30.
