Kyoto's first bird flu case this season threatens record egg prices

Kyoto confirmed its first avian influenza case of the season on November 12, prompting the culling of about 200,000 chickens and raising concerns about further egg price increases. The highly pathogenic strain was detected at a farm in Kameoka City, marking the first such infection at a poultry farm nationwide this season. Egg prices have already reached a record average of 312 yen per pack, surpassing levels seen during the 2023 "egg shock." Industry experts warn of potentially historic price hikes, with demand expected to rise for Christmas and New Year cooking. Restaurants and consumers are feeling the strain, as rising feed and poultry costs compound the impact of the outbreak.