Lamb Demand Soars 800% in Cyprus Ahead of Easter

Cyprus is experiencing a sharp rise in meat demand ahead of Easter, with butchers reporting an 800% increase in lamb and goat slaughtering, according to the Cyprus Butchers Association.

President of the association, Costas Leivadiotis, stated that slaughtering has risen from the usual 100,000 kilos to nearly 900,000 kilos this week. The surge is driven by the growing popularity of spit-roasted lamb, which has become a key feature of Easter celebrations across the island.

“Cyprus has learned about spit-roasting in recent years,” Leivadiotis said, noting that more consumers are asking for whole lambs to prepare the traditional way.

Despite the sharp increase in demand, prices for Cypriot lamb and goat remain steady at €13-15 per kilo. In contrast, Greek imports cost more, ranging from €15-17 per kilo due to transport costs and a 10% price increase.

Other meats are also affected. Beef prices have risen by 7% since yesterday, with common cuts now selling at around €12 per kilo. Specialty cuts can cost up to €40. Pork prices have dropped slightly, now at €5.5-6.5 per kilo, while chicken remains stable at €3-4.5.

The Butchers Association emphasized the importance of animal welfare and public health during the slaughtering process.

The Easter period has also brought related incidents, including a driver colliding with a flock of lambs and youths using rubbish bins to build bonfires, parading them through the streets.

Easter celebrations continue across Cyprus with high demand for traditional foods and increased public activity.

Source: https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/insider/cyprus-easter-meat-prices-lamb-demand-beef-shortage/