Villa Clara’s Egg Crisis: A Snapshot of Cuba’s Struggling Poultry Industry

Villa Clara’s Egg Crisis: A Snapshot of Cuba’s Struggling Poultry Industry

Underperforming Poultry Industry

In the heart of Cuba, the province of Villa Clara is grappling with a significant issue: an underperforming poultry industry. This has resulted in a 25% reduction in egg production compared to the international average. A primary reason for this is poor nutrition and challenges in replenishing the poultry stock due to a fuel deficit. While the global average egg production per hen annually stands at around 300 eggs, Villa Clara manages to produce only between 215-235 eggs per hen.

Past the Peak Reproductive Stage

Another contributing factor to this decline is the age of the hens. Approximately half of the hens in Villa Clara have surpassed their peak reproductive stage, typically between 55-60 weeks. After this period, hens need to be replaced to maintain optimal egg production – a step that has not been taken in this region. The fuel shortage has also impacted the production and distribution of chicken feed, as well as the collection and transportation of eggs.

Rise in Black Market Prices

The deficiency in egg production and distribution has led to an inflation in egg prices in the black market due to local stores’ inability to meet demand. Eggs that were originally intended for September delivery are now being distributed in the second half of the month, causing a delay in supply. Despite the difficulties, eggs intended for “social consumption” in kindergartens, schools, universities, hospitals, and the Family Care System (SAF) have been delivered. There are also plans to deliver the eggs intended for the September family basket between the second half of this month and the first half of next.

Quail Eggs: A Limited Alternative

In an attempt to counter the shortage of chicken eggs, the government has promoted the consumption of quail eggs due to their high nutritional value. However, the province only houses approximately 8,000 quails, making their availability limited. This situation has further affected the price of imported eggs. For instance, four dozen chicken eggs were being sold for $27.40 last week at a supermarket chain, exclusive of shipping costs – a price heavily criticized by Cuban residents living abroad, who can purchase a dozen eggs for $1.29.

Importation Affected

The shortage has not only affected the price but also the importation of powdered eggs, a common item brought by emigrants when visiting their families. The report urges for an increase in “food sovereignty” and states that the poultry company plans to grow corn and other crops on available land. However, it remains unclear how this will be achieved as long as the country continues to rely on imports for feed production. The current conditions in the country have also affected other options such as quail eggs, which are nutritious and sought after by the population.

Conclusion

The situation in Villa Clara is a snapshot of the broader issues facing Cuba’s poultry industry. The country is grappling with the effects of an aging poultry population, fuel shortages impacting egg production, and escalating prices in the black market. While the government is attempting to promote alternatives and increase food sovereignty, the road to recovery appears long and uncertain.