New Delhi: Egg prices fluctuate over time, but sometimes people wonder why some eggs cost more than others. Often, the difference stems from the type of bird producing the egg and the costs involved in production, not just market demand. In India, eggs from layer hens tend to follow a different supply model than those mistakenly referred to as “broiler eggs.” Layers are maintained for regular egg production over weeks and months, while broiler-farm birds are bred for meat.
The feed, maintenance, and output cycles differ significantly between the two. These structural differences have a direct impact on egg cost per piece or per dozen. Higher feed costs, supply constraints and seasonal changes further influence retail egg prices. Understanding these underlying factors helps explain why eggs at the store may not always cost the same.
Layer hens that produce regular eggs require continuous feed, care and housing for weeks before laying begins. These ongoing expenses are distributed across the eggs they produce. In contrast, birds raised for meat (broilers) are not intended for prolonged egg production, so the cost per egg, if any, differs.
Poultry feed remains a major cost factor for egg producers. When the prices of feed ingredients such as maize and soy rise, the incremental cost adds up across all laying hens. This pushes up the per-egg price in markets that rely on layer eggs.
Egg supply can dip due to seasonal effects or supply disruptions, while demand may rise during festivals or cold months, driving up retail prices.
Layer birds begin laying only after they mature, and the supply remains for a long period. Producers must sustain costs until eggs begin arriving, affecting overall economics.
A direct “broiler-egg vs regular egg” comparison often misleads. What people really react to is cost pressures on layer-hen production and market supply-demand gaps. That shapes why prices vary regionally and seasonally.
