Pakistan’s Annual Egg Consumption Remains Below Developed Countries, Experts Say
Pakistan’s annual egg consumption stands at approximately 100 eggs per person, significantly below the estimated 300 eggs consumed per capita in developed countries, according to experts who have called for greater awareness of the nutritional benefits of eggs.
The experts shared their views at a seminar organised by the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) to mark World Egg Day. The event was held under the theme, “The Mighty Egg: Packed with Natural Nutrition”.
Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Professor Dr Shahid Mehmood, highlighted the importance of including eggs in everyday meals because of their nutritional value. He said eggs provide 13 essential nutrients and can support health at different stages of life, from childhood brain development to maintaining muscle strength and bone health in older adults.
He also highlighted the contribution of the poultry sector to Pakistan’s economy, describing it as the country’s second-largest industry after textiles. He encouraged people to increase egg consumption as part of efforts to improve dietary habits.
Professor Dr Kashif Saleemi, chairman of the Department of Pathology, said eggs provide protein, vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. He noted that eggs are widely available, versatile and relatively affordable compared with many other sources of nutrition.
Saleemi stressed the need to raise public awareness about the nutritional benefits of eggs, adding that better dietary choices could help address nutritional deficiencies among the population.
Additional Director Livestock Faisalabad Dr Robina also discussed the role of eggs in improving household nutrition. She emphasised the importance of promoting healthy eating habits and making nutritious foods a regular part of daily meals.
Dr Muhammad Yousaf said World Egg Day, observed on the second Friday of October each year, provides an opportunity to highlight the contribution of eggs to nutrition and public health around the world.
He also pointed to the economic importance of the poultry industry, with the global sector projected to reach a value of $417 billion in 2026.
Kaleem Qamar Gill, marketing manager at Mukhtar Feed, said increasing public understanding of the nutritional and economic value of eggs could help encourage consumption across Pakistan.
He called for cooperation between poultry businesses, livestock authorities and relevant institutions to promote egg consumption and educate the public about its role in a balanced diet.
The experts said greater awareness of affordable, nutrient-rich foods could help improve dietary practices in Pakistan. Their recommendations highlighted the importance of nutrition education and collaboration across the poultry and livestock sectors.
