Dorita Yiannakou
Some consumers in Cyprus are showing concern about buying meat and dairy products because of foot-and-mouth disease. The market has not come to a halt, but there is clear anxiety, with some shoppers worried about both the availability and the price of milk and lamb ahead of the holiday period. According to market sources, consumers are being asked to adapt to new consumption conditions, though there has been no major disruption in the market.
Prices and choices
So far, prices have increased by about 2 to 3 cents. If necessary, quantities of lamb will be imported, as they are every year, from Greece, and prices are expected to be higher. The Consumer Association emphasizes that potential shortages of lamb are not considered a major issue since other options are available. Pork, for example, is highlighted as a popular and flavorful alternative. Consumers can also choose other types of meat such as goat, chicken, or beef, depending on their preferences and budgets. Despite possible shortages in certain products, consumers can adjust their Easter menu while preserving its festive and traditional character, even if the main dish changes.
Halloumi
As for halloumi, there is currently no significant issue with the supply of sheep and goat milk. However, the Consumer Association told K that if shortages arise, a reduction in the percentage used could be considered for certain product categories that do not fall under strict PDO specifications.
It is worth noting that halloumi remains available in international markets and is considered safe because its production process includes heat treatment above 95°C, a temperature that inactivates the foot-and-mouth disease virus. Under the European regulatory framework, heat-treated dairy products are not considered carriers of transmission, and no export bans have been imposed for health reasons so far. Cyprus has secured agreements with the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, all of which recognize halloumi as a safe product. As a result, exports continue as normal without European restrictions, and key markets remain open.
At the same time, for halloumi, the most important agricultural export of Cyprus, the main concern is the availability of raw materials. The culling of sheep and goats reduces the production of their milk, which has raised concern among businesses about meeting export contracts and maintaining the product’s presence on international shelves. If agreed quantities cannot be delivered, retailers may replace halloumi with competing grill cheese products, industry groups warn. In that case, regaining market share could take significant time and cost.
