Ireland

FAQs

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Where does Ireland import eggs?

Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading suppliers of eggs in Ireland. Our partnerships with domestic and international egg producers enable us to service your egg needs.

When you order eggs from Eggs Unlimited, you source your eggs from a leading worldwide supplier. Our international supply network helps customers create a more diverse and secure supply-chain. The Eggs Unlimited team has superior market reach and insight, so that producers have an outlet for their products and buyers receive the most competitive prices available.

Eggs Unlimited has dedicated teams to manage aspects of a transition, timely pickups, deliveries, and payment through direct ACH deposits. Our customers get peace of mind that they have a team of market experts helping to manage their inventory positions and monitor the market in real-time, with a historical vantage from decades of experience.

FAQs

Where does Ireland import eggs?

Ireland produces the majority of its shell eggs domestically, but it also imports a notable share of processed egg products and, on occasion, shell eggs to maintain market stability and support the growing food manufacturing industry.

Top sources of egg imports into Ireland include:

• United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) – A primary partner due to proximity and aligned regulations under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
  
• Netherlands & Germany – Exporters of pasteurized liquid eggs and powdered eggs for Ireland’s bakery and food production sectors.
  
• France & Spain – Suppliers of shell eggs, especially during seasonal fluctuations.
  
• United States – Supplies egg powder and frozen eggs for use in large-scale food manufacturing.
  

Ireland benefits from open trade within the European Single Market, enabling seamless importation of eggs and egg products from EU member states under standardized health and safety laws.

To Learn more about working with international egg markets contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

Why Does Ireland Import Eggs?

Although Ireland’s domestic egg industry is robust, imports are an essential part of the supply chain to ensure operational continuity, competitive pricing, and access to specialized products.

Key reasons Ireland imports eggs:

1. Industrial Food Production Ireland has a growing food manufacturing and export sector (baked goods, dairy-based sauces, convenience meals) that relies on liquid egg and egg powder for efficiency and safety.
   
2. Seasonal or Supply Disruptions During periods of lower production—due to weather, avian influenza, or increased holiday demand—imports help maintain product availability and pricing stability.
   
3. Specialty or Certified Products Some manufacturers and retailers require organic, free-range, or enriched eggs that may be sourced externally when domestic supply is limited.
   
4. Support for Export-Ready Food Producers Processors manufacturing for UK, EU, or global markets often demand standardized, certified egg inputs that match destination country requirements.
   

Eggs Unlimited offers flexible solutions for Irish importers, manufacturers, and retailers needing specialty, bulk, or value-added egg products.

What makes eggs in Ireland compliant?

Ireland follows strict EU food safety regulations while also aligning with Bord Bia (Ireland’s food board) standards and Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) protocols.

1. EU Food Safety Standards

All eggs and egg products sold or imported into Ireland must meet:

• Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 – Hygiene rules for animal-origin products
  
• Regulation (EC) No 589/2008 – Marketing standards for shell eggs
  
• Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003 – Salmonella prevention and control
  
• HACCP protocols and good hygiene practices (GHP) in all handling and processing stages
  

Imported eggs must come from EU-approved farms and facilities or third-country exporters listed by the European Commission.

2. Traceability & Labeling

Each egg or egg case must be labeled with:

• Producer code (including farming method: 0 = organic, 1 = free-range, 2 = barn, 3 = cage)
  
• Country of origin
  
• Best-before date, pack date, and packager identification
  
• Product label in English, including all required safety and nutritional information
  

Eggs Unlimited ensures every shipment includes compliant packaging and full documentation, including traceability from farm to destination.

How much do eggs cost in Ireland?

Egg prices in Ireland fluctuate based on production costs, market demand, and EU-wide supply conditions.

Key pricing factors include:

1. Feed Costs Poultry feed (corn and soy) is a major driver of pricing, and feed ingredient costs have risen across the EU due to global inflation, climate impacts, and conflict-driven supply issues.
   
2. Energy and Transport Costs for refrigeration, farm operations, and logistics have increased post-pandemic and due to energy market instability.
   
3. Production Method Organic, free-range, and enriched eggs come at a higher cost due to space requirements, certification, and welfare compliance.
   
4. Retail and Holiday Trends Prices rise around Easter and Christmas due to increased household consumption and baking.
   
5. Imports and Trade Flows When local supply is tight, imported eggs from EU countries help stabilize prices but may come at a premium during high-demand periods.
   

To receive real-time pricing or bulk quotes for the Ireland market, contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com .

Common egg carton sizing in the Ireland

Carton Size

Number of Eggs

Typical Use

4 Egg Carton	4 eggs	Small cartons designed for premium products, often organic or heritage eggs. Exotic eggs as well.
Half Dozen	6 eggs	Most commonly sold size for households. Widely available in all egg types (free-range, organic, barn, etc.).

10 Egg Carton	10 eggs	The most widely used carton size for everyday retail. Eggs are arranged in a 2×5 layout.
Dozen	12 eggs	Popular size for larger households or frequent egg users. Available in most supermarkets.

15-Pack

15 eggs

Larger size, often for families or budget-conscious buyers. Common in discount supermarkets

18-Pack

18 eggs

Sold less frequently but available at some retailers, often marketed to bulk buyers.

30-Pack (Tray)

30 eggs

Typically sold in trays, often seen in wholesale markets (e.g., Costco) or for professional use (bakeries, catering, etc.).

Eggs in Ireland are categorized by weight rather than physical dimensions. Cartons are typically labeled with the egg size, and a single carton may include eggs of a specific size category:

Category	Weight per Egg (grams)
Extra Large (XL)	73g or more
Large (L)	63g–72g
Medium (M)	53g–62g
Small (S)	Less than 53g

Wholesale eggs or bulk egg packaging by the case

The number of eggs in a case can vary depending on the type and size of the eggs, as well as the packaging standards of the producer or distributor. The most common case sizes for chicken eggs are:

• 5-Dozen Case: There are 5 dozen (60 eggs) in a 5-dozen case.
• 10-Dozen Case: While less common, you might also find 10-dozen cases, which contain 120 eggs.
• 15-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 15 dozen or 180 eggs. in a 15-dozen case.
• 30-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 30 dozen or 360 eggs. in a 30-dozen case.
• 720 Egg Pallet: (24 Trays of 30 Eggs) Palletized packaging for very large buyers or distributors.

Types of Eggs

Eggs in Ireland are categorized by production method and farming practices, with some labels catering to specific consumer preferences:

• Conventional Eggs:
  • White Eggs
  • Brown Eggs
    • Produced by caged hens in large-scale facilities. These are the most affordable and widely available.
• Egg Products
  • Used by food manufacturers, bakeries, and restaurants. Includes:
  • Liquid Eggs: Pasteurized egg whites, yolks, or whole eggs.
  • Powdered Eggs: Dehydrated eggs for long shelf life and industrial use.
  • Frozen Eggs: Used for large-scale food production.
• Free-Range Eggs: Laid by hens that roam freely outdoors or in open barns, catering to consumers who prioritize animal welfare.
• Organic Eggs: From hens fed organic feed and raised under strict organic farming guidelines. These are typically more expensive.
• Specialty Eggs

Contact Eggs Unlimited for any egg size or type of case load needed today!! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

How to sell commercial eggs in Ireland?

Selling commercial eggs in Ireland requires compliance with food safety regulations, import approvals, and market demand strategies. The egg market in Ireland is growing, with both domestic production and imports playing key roles in supply.

To successfully sell commercial eggs in Ireland, suppliers must meet high regulatory standards, respond to ethical consumer demands, and understand buyer expectations in both retail and foodservice channels.

1. Know the Market

• Retail sector: Supermarket chains (Dunnes Stores, Tesco Ireland, SuperValu, Lidl, Aldi) often prioritize local, traceable, and welfare-friendly eggs.
  
• Foodservice sector: Hotels, catering groups, and QSRs rely on bulk shell eggs, liquid eggs, or powdered products.
  
• Food manufacturers: Irish and EU export-focused producers require reliable supply of certified processed eggs.
  

2. Meet Regulatory Requirements

• Comply with EU veterinary and hygiene rules
  
• Provide full traceability documentation and HACCP-compliant sourcing
  
• Label products in English with all mandatory information
  
• Ensure veterinary health certificates and import paperwork for non-Irish products
  

3. Offer Differentiated Product Solutions

• Free-range, organic, Omega-3, and enriched eggs are gaining traction
  
• Private-label or co-branded packaging is common for supermarket buyers
  
• Processed egg buyers prioritize pasteurized, heat-treated, and long shelf-life products
  

4. Attend Industry Events

• Connect with buyers and distributors at shows like:
  
  • Bloom in the Park (Dublin)
    
  • IFE (UK & Ireland)
    
  • Bord Bia-organized trade missions
    

Eggs Unlimited supports Irish sellers with full-service logistics, sourcing, and EU compliance support, acting as a trusted procurement partner.

Contact Eggs Unlimited today for insight into the Ireland egg market! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

EGG CERTIFICATIONS IN Ireland 

Required Certifications:

• EU Veterinary Health Certificate
  
• HACCP and Food Hygiene Compliance
  
• Traceability Code on all shell eggs
  
• English-language labeling per Irish food regulations
  
• Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) registration (for domestic handlers)
  

Highly Valued or Preferred Certifications:

• Bord Bia Quality Assurance Mark – Ireland’s gold standard for food quality and sustainability
  
• EU Organic Certification – Required for organic labeling within Ireland and EU
  
• GlobalG.A.P. – Commonly accepted for traceability and responsible farming practices
  
• BRCGS / IFS Certification – Preferred by major food processors and retailers
  
• Animal Welfare Certifications – Especially important for cage-free and enriched egg marketing
  

Halal / Kosher Certification – For specialty buyers and export-oriented food manufacturers

WHY EGGS UNLIMITED?

Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery. 

We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering promptly. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.

LET’S DISCUSS YOUR Irish EGG STRATEGY!

Get in touch with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to discover all your conventional egg options.

Call: 1-888-554-3977

E-mail: eusales@eggsunlimited.com