Peru: Rise in production and consumption of eggs

Egg production in Peru has increased by 73% and has risen by 55.20% for per capita consumption in the last 10 years. Despite these positive figures, consumption is below average for the region, indicating a great potential for growth.

According to the Director of Agricultural Business, Marco Vinelli Ruiz, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MINAGRI), Peru has increased egg production from 202,400 tonnes in 2004 to 349,800 tonnes recorded last year, representing a growth of 73% in ten years.

The Director of Land Business noted that according to figures from MINAGRI there has been an increase in egg consumption between the years 2004 and 2013, from 118 units per capita to 184 units per person, which represents a growth of 55.20% in the last decade.

However, the official said, despite the significant increase in egg consumption, Peruvians still maintain a below average per capita consumption for the region. Mexico ranks first with 350 eggs per person per year.

Finally, Vinelli said the egg is considered by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) as the most nutritious in nature. It is a complete food and a great source of nutrients. Contains high protein biological value after breast milk; also has a nutritional efficiency rate of 93.7%.