Chicken and pork prices remain steady
Ahead of Tsiknopempti, Cypriots are preparing to stock up on meat, with chicken and pork prices holding steady or slightly lower, according to Kostas Leivadiotis, President of the Pancyprian Butchers Association.
Lamb and beef show higher costs
Lamb has been more expensive for about a year, while beef prices have doubled globally over the past three to four years. In Cyprus, beef prices have remained relatively contained. The international increase stems from reduced supply, whereas higher pork availability has helped keep its price lower.
Traditional favourites for Tsiknopempti
Cypriots typically favour bacon, souvlaki, steaks, and lamb chops during the festival. Average meat consumption on the island now stands at around 100 kilograms per person annually, down from about 113 kilograms in previous years. This decline may reflect changing dietary habits and rising prices, particularly for lamb and beef. For comparison, global average meat consumption is roughly 40 kilograms per person per year.
Younger consumers seek premium cuts
Leivadiotis noted that demand for unusual meats remains limited. However, younger consumers increasingly choose premium imported beef cuts such as steaks, ribeye, and filet from Scotland, Ireland, the Netherlands, the US, and Latin America.
Foreign residents in Cyprus also drive demand for imported meats. Premium cuts like ribeye typically cost between €40 and €70 per kilogram, with some reaching €150–200 per kilogram.
Also read: Tsiknopempti weather brings showers
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