Egg prices in Pakistan have finally seen a drop, offering a sigh of relief to consumers who were shelling out a hefty sum for their morning omelets. However, while the decrease is significant, the celebration might be premature as prices remain considerably high compared to pre-hike levels.

Previously, during peak winter months, a dozen eggs could cost a staggering Rs. 420-430, translating to approximately Rs. 35 per egg. This steep rise put a strain on household budgets, particularly for those relying on eggs as an affordable source of protein.

Thankfully, the past week has brought a welcome change. Prices have tumbled down to Rs. 320-330 per dozen, marking a Rs. 100 decrease. This translates to a roughly 24% reduction, offering some reprieve for consumers.

But before we break out the frying pan, it's crucial to remember that even at the current price, eggs are far from cheap. Compared to pre-hike times, they still cost nearly double, making them a less accessible protein option for many families.

So, what caused the initial spike and subsequent decline? Experts attribute the rise to several factors, including a surge in demand during winter, coupled with disruptions in the supply chain due to avian influenza outbreaks. As temperatures cool, egg consumption typically increases, putting pressure on poultry farms to meet demand. The avian flu outbreaks further exacerbated the situation, leading to poultry culling and reduced egg production.

However, with warmer weather returning, demand has eased, pushing prices downwards. Additionally, increased farm production and government measures to control feed costs might have contributed to the decline.

While the price drop is positive, it's essential to address the underlying issues that led to the initial spike. Strengthening the supply chain, investing in disease prevention measures, and exploring alternative protein sources are crucial to ensuring long-term egg affordability for all Pakistanis.

So, the egg price situation might be less scrambled than before, but there are still plenty of shells to crack. Until prices return to truly accessible levels, the omelets on many Pakistani tables will remain incomplete