Abundant chicken and eggs in the Eastern Province during Ramadan: Ministry of Environment plan
The Eastern Province branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced its readiness for the holy month of Ramadan, through a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at ensuring an ample supply of chicken and eggs. This step comes in response to the anticipated increase in demand during Ramadan and is part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance food security and ensure the stability of supply chains in local markets.
Strengthening national food security
These preparations are particularly important given the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's national objectives within Vision 2030, which prioritizes food security and increasing self-sufficiency in poultry. The poultry sector in the Kingdom is one of the fastest-growing food sectors, and the Ministry is working to ensure that peak seasons, such as Ramadan, do not affect price stability or product availability, reflecting the robustness of the agricultural and livestock production infrastructure in the Eastern Province.
Field monitoring and vital requirements
In detailing the operational plan, the branch's Deputy General Manager, Engineer Saleh Al-Ghamdi, explained that the Eastern Province is home to a large number of large-scale poultry projects and production farms operating according to the highest biosecurity standards. Al-Ghamdi emphasized that inspection teams have intensified their field visits to ensure compliance with strict biosecurity requirements, subject to direct and continuous veterinary supervision, to guarantee that a healthy and safe product reaches the end consumer, free from any pathogens that could affect public health.
Nutritional value and consumer awareness
For his part, the Director of the Agriculture Department, Engineer Waleed Al-Shuwaired, highlighted the health and nutritional aspects, noting that chicken and eggs are ideal choices for those fasting. He explained that these products contain high-quality, easily digestible proteins, in addition to lower fat content compared to red meat, making them essential components of Iftar and Suhoor meals.
Al-Shuwaird offered consumer advice, emphasizing the importance of proper handling of products, from storing them at appropriate temperatures to ensure their safety, to cooking them thoroughly to eliminate any potential bacterial risks. He added that consuming protein at suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) helps those fasting feel full for longer periods and helps maintain muscle mass and energy levels during the day of Ramadan.
Logistical support and market stability
In a related context, the Ministry affirmed its commitment to providing all forms of support to local producers, including logistical support to ensure the smooth flow of transport and distribution. These measures aim to prevent any disruptions in supply chains that could lead to price fluctuations, thus protecting consumers from commercial exploitation and guaranteeing the availability of high-quality, competitively priced domestic products. Inspection teams are working in coordination with relevant authorities to regulate markets and monitor points of sale and slaughterhouses, ensuring a safe and food-stable Ramadan season for all residents of the region.
