NEW WAVE OF EGG SHORTAGES

BERLIN, JULY 7 /SRNA/ - A new egg shortage has been reported in Germany, with several retail chains limiting customers to a maximum of two packs per purchase, German newspaper "Bild" reported.

According to the paper, the shortage and rising egg prices were caused by a major outbreak of Newcastle disease, or atypical avian plague, among laying hens in Europe.

The retail chain "Netto ApS & Co. KG has introduced a limit on egg purchases at all of its stores, restricting customers to two packs per purchase.

The management of the "Netto" chain confirmed the introduction of the egg purchase limit, citing serious disruptions in the supply of poultry products on the European market as the reason.

The company expects the supply situation in Germany to begin stabilising in July.

Meanwhile, "Rewe", one of Germany's largest supermarket chains, has reported a reduced selection of eggs, but stressed that a complete shortage is not yet in sight.

German media reported in April that there was a serious egg shortage in many German states, including the capital region. The reasons cited included outbreaks of infectious poultry diseases, reduced imports from EU countries and a seasonal peak in demand.