REPORT: VANGELIS BANDES
The tradition of enjoying arrowroot at the Easter table comes at a higher cost this year, as prices are expected to reach new heights! Although the sale price has not yet been “locked in”, the President of the Pieria Butchers’ Association Valantis Bitopoulos estimates that the goat will be sold for 14 to 15 euros per kilo in the butchers of Pieria, marking an increase compared to last year’s level. “Unfortunately, we expected it. We’ve had a tough time…fasting at the butchers. The market is down. However, people come and ask“, he said.
Proficiency in the market…
Despite concern over the increased price, local butchers are optimistic about consumer response, with the president of the union stressing that there is enough to cover the market. “There are lambs in the neighborhood butchers and local producers provide good quality“, said Mr. Bitopoulos.
At the same time, quality is a priority for local producers and butchers. “Don’t worry, people will find good quality“, he added, pointing out that the offer of good quality meat from local producers encourages consumers to choose the local market despite the increased price.
“Intensify controls”
The imminent increase in the prices of lambs for Easter has intensified the concern of the President of the Butchers Association of Pieria about illegal Greekization and illegal slaughters.
Mr. Bitopoulos appealed to the authorities to strengthen controls at all levels of the production chain, calling on them to stand by the butchers. “Controls should be stepped up on public transport, in corrals, in slaughterhouses, everywhere“, he stated.
He notes that addressing illegal practices is an essential step towards maintaining the competitiveness of the meat market, he added.
