Shortage of foie gras at Christmas: why will it be rare on end-of-year tables?

72959 Views 11/12/2022 0 comments Posted By: Emmanuel Poulet-Harmel In: Blog of gourmets

 Foie gras, the star product of the end-of-year celebrations, could therefore become rare. 

 The end-of-year celebrations are likely to be disrupted by numerous shortages. After that of mustard or even butter, it is foie gras that seems to soon be missing. In 2022,  nearly 20 million poultry had to be culled due to avian flu. It is estimated that there will be a shortage of 30 to 40% of the supply this year. 

 Avian flu has caused a tidal wave among foie gras producers. The Pays de la Loire region, where 70% of French breeding animals are found, was badly affected. This phenomenon has caused a loss of nearly 90% of broodstock which were essential for the production of ducklings. An unprecedented situation that pushes producers and public authorities to think about a lasting solution to prevent this from happening again. Vaccination against avian flu is on the table and producers place a lot of hope in this solution. 

 France has 3,500 producers of foie gras. Due to avian flu, 30 to 40% of the annual duck production is currently missing. 

 The government has put in place a process to help producers who find themselves completely devastated by this situation. 1.1 billion euros: this is the estimated cost to compensate 100% for the loss of earnings of breeders. 

 The lack of ducklings is a major handicap for producers. Producers are not optimistic, a return to normal is not expected before the second half of 2023. A situation which should last for many more months and which keeps repeating itself: this is the fourth epidemic bird flu in the South West since 2015. 

 Faced with the shortage of foie gras, we must find alternatives to replace it. Here are some quick and easy recipe ideas to delight your guests. For fish lovers, you can opt for salmon rillettes or caviar toasts which are good solutions to make up for the lack of foie gras on your tables. Notice to meat lovers, don't worry! We recommend delicious pie!