In this article, we will be covering the top 20 countries with highest egg consumption per capita. If you want to skip our detailed analysis of the egg industry and consumption trends, go directly to the Top 5 Countries with Highest Egg Consumption.
Eggs are a popular source of protein and essential nutrients, contributing to their popularity in the international market. The size of the global egg industry was valued at $213.13 billion in 2020. Moving forward, the industry is expected to expand from $248.49 billion in 2022 to $374.89 billion in 2027. This growth trajectory assumes a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.57% during the forecasted period. The global surge in the price of commodities following the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022 had a noticeable impact on the egg industry, leading to increased prices. However, advancements in egg storage technology and the development of new poultry breeds are expected to boost production and foster industry growth in the future, leading to a rise in egg consumption worldwide.
In 2020, the Asia Pacific region held approximately 64% share of the global egg industry. This dominance can be attributed to the high population in the region and the widespread consumption of eggs as a dietary staple. Following closely, North America emerged as the second largest region in the industry, with a 14% share of the market. During the period between 2022 to 2032, North American countries are expected to drive the demand in the industry. Among the North American countries, Mexico eats the most eggs per person, with an egg consumption per capita of 397 in 2020. Globally, the country with the highest average egg consumption per person per day is in Asia, with an average of more than 420 eggs per year.
Some of the leading companies contributing to the rising demand for eggs include The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:KHC), McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD), and Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN). One of the most prominent egg producers in the US is the Jackson, Mississippi-based Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ:CALM). The company specializes in the production, grading, packaging, and distribution of fresh shell eggs in the US. It is considered the world’s biggest egg producer, with a flock of 44.3 million layers under its holding. CALM shares were trading as high as $65 at the end of 2022, however, Cal-Maine Foods stock significantly underperformed the market this year as the stock is currently hovering around $49. Meanwhile, St. Louis, Missouri-based Post Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:POST) is also not far behind in the industry as it owns and operates Michael Foods, a subsidiary that is a leading producer and distributor of value-added egg products. Michael Foods specializes in the production of eggs and egg products for both food service and retail markets.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price of one dozen Grade A eggs was $2.67 in May and declined by 5.1% from April’s $3.27 per dozen. Egg prices were $1.67 per dozen at the end of 2021, so we can expect the declines to continue over the coming months. This definitely doesn’t sound too promising for Cal-Maine Foods investors in the short term.
Our Methodology
We obtained the annual egg consumption data for all the countries from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). To gain deeper insights into consumption patterns, we also calculated the egg consumption per capita for each country by dividing the annual consumption by the total population figures sourced from the World Bank. The countries have been ranked in ascending order of their annual egg consumption as of 2020. Furthermore, we have also calculated the average egg consumption per person per year by assuming an average weight of 60 grams for an egg.
Top 20 Countries with Highest Egg Consumption
20. Republic of Korea
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 768,000 tons
Population: 51,269,180
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 14.98 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 250
The Republic of Korea, also known as South Korea, recorded total annual egg consumption of 768,000 tons in 2020. Eggs are widely used in numerous dishes in the country, like soups, stews, banchan (side dishes), and as a topping for rice or noodles. They are also used in making traditional dishes like jeon (Korean-style pancakes) during the Lunar New Year holiday.
19. Spain
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 774,000 tons
Population: 46,754,780
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 16.55 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 276
Eggs hold a significant place in traditional Spanish cuisine, with their versatile use in a variety of dishes such as tortillas (Spanish omelettes) and various baked goods.
18. Bangladesh
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 799,000 tons
Population: 164,689,380
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 4.85 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 81
Bangladesh has seen rapid growth in the consumption of eggs due to improved lifestyles because of economic prosperity and urbanization. Eggs are considered an affordable source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Eggs are often promoted as a vital component of a balanced diet, especially for children and pregnant women.
17. United Kingdom
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 858,000 tons
Population: 67,886,010
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 12.64 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 211
The UK consumes eggs as part of the traditional British breakfast, which typically includes fried or poached eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast. The country is at the seventeenth position on our list of the top 20 countries with highest egg consumption.
16. Argentina
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 874,000 tons
Population: 45,195,770
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 19.34 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 322
Argentina has a significant poultry industry, with a focus on egg production. The country has developed modern farming practices to meet the growing demand for eggs, ensuring a steady supply in the market. Eggs are often consumed as part of a traditional Argentine breakfast, where fried or scrambled eggs are commonly served as a side dish.
15. Ukraine
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 914,000 tons
Population: 43,733,760
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 20.90 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 348
Eggs are frequently used in various traditional Ukrainian dishes and are an important ingredient in both sweet and savoury recipes. Eggs are used in dishes such as borscht (traditional beet soup), varenyky (dumplings), holubtsi (cabbage rolls), and paskha (Easter dessert).
14. Pakistan
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 947,000 tons
Population: 220,892,340
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 4.29 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 71
Pakistan consumes eggs in various dishes like omelettes, egg curry, and rice. They are particularly popular and commonly consumed as part of breakfast meals.
13. Colombia
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 984,000 tons
Population: 50,882,890
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 19.34 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 322
Colombia uses eggs as a common ingredient in popular dishes like arepas (cornmeal patties), bandeja paisa (a traditional platter with rice, beans, meat, and eggs), and empanadas (stuffed pastries). Eggs are often included in traditional dishes prepared for festive occasions such as Christmas and Easter.
12. France
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 992,000 tons
Population: 65,273,510
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 15.20 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 253
France has a heavy emphasis on the quality and freshness of food, and this applies to eggs as well. There is a preference for fresh, locally sourced eggs, including organic or free-range options, with an emphasis on the quality of the yolk and flavour. Eggs are used in various traditional French dishes, such as quiches, omelettes, soufflés, and crêpes.
11. Türkiye
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 1.02 million tons
Population: 84,339,070
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 12.11 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 202
Türkiye uses eggs as a key ingredient in dishes like menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers), börek (savoury pastries), pide (Turkish pizza), and çılbır (poached eggs in yoghurt). Eggs are often served as part of a traditional Turkish breakfast spread, which includes olives, cheese, bread, and honey. The country ranks at the eleventh position on our list of the top 20 countries with highest egg consumption.
10. Thailand
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 1.10 million tons
Population: 69,799,980
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 15.76 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 263
Thailand has a vibrant street food culture, and eggs are often a key component of street food dishes. From egg-fried rice to omelettes stuffed with meat or vegetables, eggs feature prominently in many street food offerings. Eggs are also a common ingredient in popular dishes like pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), khao pad (fried rice), and various curry dishes.
9. Germany
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 1.29 million tons
Population: 83,783,940
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 15.44 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 257
Germany has a strong focus on organic and free-range food production, and this extends to eggs. Many consumers in Germany prefer eggs from organic or free-range systems, reflecting a growing interest in animal welfare and sustainable food choices. Eggs are typically accompanied by bread, cold cuts, cheese, and spreads as part of German breakfast.
8. Russia
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 2.58 million tons
Population: 145,934,460
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 17.67 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 295
Russia uses eggs as a key ingredient in dishes such as blini (Russian pancakes), Olivier salad, and various types of pies and pastries. The tradition of decorating eggs, known as “pysanka,” is deeply rooted in Russian culture and is celebrated during the Easter season.
7. Japan
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 2.65 million tons
Population: 126,476,460
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 20.92 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 349
Eggs are an integral part of Japanese cuisine and are consumed by different age groups. Eggs are a key ingredient in popular dishes like tamagoyaki (rolled omelette), oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl), ramen (noodle soup with a soft-boiled egg topping), and okonomiyaki (savoury pancake). Eggs are also used in sushi, bento boxes, and various Japanese-style bakery items.
6. Mexico
Total Annual Egg Consumption: 3.07 million tons
Population: 128,932,750
Annual Egg Consumption Per Capita: 23.81 kg
Average Number of Eggs Consumed per person per year: 397
Mexico has secured the sixth position on our list of the top 20 countries with highest egg consumption. Eggs are commonly used in tortas (sandwiches), tacos, and various traditional Mexican soups.
Some of the popular companies contributing to the rising demand for eggs globally include The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:KHC), McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD), and Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN)
Click to continue reading and see the Top 5 Countries with Highest Egg Consumption.
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Disclosure: None. Top 20 Countries with Highest Egg Consumption is originally published on Insider Monkey.