Overview
- The government order in force since November 13 requires free-range domestic birds in designated surveillance zones to be kept indoors to limit H5N1 spread.
- Egg prices are up 15.9% so far this year and roughly 18% to 22.5% versus a year ago, while chicken has risen about 7.5% since May, with producer prices jumping on key exchanges.
- Authorities report 14 farm outbreaks in 2025 and nearly 3 million birds culled, though Castilla y León has gone about a month without new foci.
- Free-range flocks represent about 10% of egg output and 3% of broiler production, and sector associations say there is no current risk of market shortages.
- Experts say the risk to humans remains low, and consumer groups are monitoring for speculative pricing and urging temporary VAT relief on eggs and chicken.