kathimerini.gr
Goat and Sheep Meat Price Surge in Greece Amidst Disease Outbreak
Soaring goat and sheep meat prices in Greece, reaching "9.5 euros per kilo" from "7.5 euros" a year ago, are impacting consumers and raising concerns about feta cheese production due to a widespread sheep and goat pox outbreak affecting 1,000 farmers and 6% of the national livestock.
- How has the sheep and goat pox outbreak affected the Greek livestock sector and feta cheese production?
- The outbreak, starting August 2022, has resulted in 450 infection sites, eliminating around 50% of livestock units. Approximately 100,000 animals have been culled, impacting milk supplies for feta cheese production and threatening exports. Around 1,000 farmers lost their herds, representing 6% of the national livestock.
- What is the immediate impact of the increased goat and sheep meat prices on Greek consumers and producers?
- The price increase benefits producers temporarily, but high prices may cause consumers to switch to alternatives, potentially harming producers in the long run. This mirrors the reduced beef consumption due to earlier feed price increases. The situation is further complicated by the sheep and goat pox outbreak impacting milk supply for feta production.
- What are the long-term implications of the current situation for the Greek livestock industry and its exports?
- The government's approach of culling instead of vaccination, to avoid export issues with countries like Australia, the US, and the UK, carries significant risks. The disease's continued spread, despite containment measures, threatens the future viability of the livestock sector and its export potential. The long-term impact on consumer behavior and the recovery of the affected farming community remain critical concerns.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the goat and sheep meat price increase, acknowledging both the benefits for farmers and the potential negative consequences for consumers. The inclusion of quotes from the president of the Hellenic Sheep Breeding Association and a veterinarian provides diverse perspectives. However, the emphasis on the negative consequences of the disease outbreak, particularly the devastating impact on individual farmers, might unintentionally overshadow the overall economic effects of the price increase.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. While terms like "devastating impact" are used to describe the effects of the disease, they are accurately reflective of the situation and not overly emotional or charged. The article avoids sensationalism.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including data on the overall market share of goat and sheep meat compared to other meats to offer a broader context of the potential changes in consumer habits. Additionally, exploring the government's economic support measures for affected farmers would provide a more complete picture of the situation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses a significant outbreak of sheep and goat pox in Greece, resulting in the culling of approximately 100,000 animals and impacting the livelihoods of 1,000 farmers. This directly affects food security and the availability of goat and sheep meat and dairy products, thus negatively impacting the achievement of Zero Hunger (SDG 2). The loss of livestock also affects the income of farmers, potentially leading to food insecurity among them and potentially leading to higher food prices for consumers.