2023-10-29 02:16:50
In a scenario where food availability is a constant concern for Cuban citizens, the egg production sector faces challenges that have led to a shortage of eggs in the market and notably high prices. The roots of this situation are found in the obstacles faced by the Cuban poultry industry, with emphasis on the living conditions of the hens.
The 28 de Enero state poultry farm, located in Pinar del Río, has been highlighted for its successful production, with an average of 49,000 eggs per day. The unit, which has 61,144 hens and roosters, operates with a computer that constantly monitors the “feeding, ventilation and collection of excrement” of the birds, creating an efficient system. However, it is an exceptional case in a country where egg production fails to meet national demand.
One of the main concerns is the lack of essential inputs, such as “litter,” a product made from rice husks used to feed chickens. This shortage, combined with the lack of funds to purchase alternatives such as zeolite or wood chips, has negatively impacted the diet and, consequently, the health of the birds, reducing their egg production.
According to Jorge Luis Parapar, president of the Food and Poultry Business Group, the cost of producing eggs is 5.60 pesos, while they are sold for 2.08 pesos in the warehouses, which results in significant losses for the poultry companies.
In addition to the lack of food, there is a shortage of fuel and other essential inputs to guarantee the basic welfare conditions of the hens, which has resulted in a decrease in egg production. According to estimates, Cuba would need to double the number of chickens and egg production to adequately meet national demand.
Very sensitive and stressed chickens
Pairwise he pointed that improving egg production would require addressing the cultivation of feed, acquiring fuel, transgenic seeds, fertilizers and advanced technology, elements that are currently in short supply in the country. Despite these challenges, Parapar assured that the national agriculture program, designed by Fidel Castro, is designed to resist the current economic difficulties and overcome them.
Finally, Parapar highlighted that Cuban chickens are “very sensitive and get stressed easily.” The lack of fuel has caused delays in the delivery of food to farms, which has affected their egg production capacity.
The current egg shortage situation in Cuba poses significant challenges for the country and its ability to meet the basic needs of its citizens. Long-term measures and concrete solutions will be needed to address these problems and ensure an adequate supply of essential foods such as eggs.
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