A recent slump in egg supply in Taiwan has caused a wave of panic buying and a rise in prices. Eggs seem hard to come by even in regions where they are produced.
Even rainy weather doesn’t discourage shoppers from snatching up every egg they can find.
One consumer got turned away at multiple shops, while another speculates that people are panic buying.
Many in Taiwan scrambled to stock up on eggs after the country started experiencing a shortage late last month. The reasons behind it are a past slump in demand, which discouraged breeders from replenishing numbers of hens. Cold weather and recent avian flu outbreaks have also played a role.
Many businesses now limit the number of eggs clients can buy, especially since orders are often coming up short.
The shortage is felt even in Hualien, where many egg farms are located. Breakfast shops are complaining about rising prices, even when eggs are available.
Chang Chin-yi from Hualien’s chicken breeder association says that the majority of local production is sent elsewhere to fulfill backlogged orders.
The local agricultural authorities, on the other hand, say they are willing to help local breeders wishing to ensure enough supply for local residents.
Unless consumers stop panic buying or start substituting eggs with other food items, it seems the shortage will persist until a solution can be hatched.