Supply management is a unique marketing system that controls domestic production and imports of eggs, milk, chicken, turkey, and broiler hatching eggs. Eggs have been supply managed in Canada for more than 40 years.

The Government of Canada introduced the supply management system in the early 1970s to combat the surplus in production that had become common in the 1950s and 1960s. At this time, egg farming was an economic roller coaster that led to large price swings for consumers and bankruptcy for family farms. Today, supply management works to provide a stable market for both consumers and farmers.

Each year, a production quota is set so the supply of eggs can meet the demand from consumers. This quota system helps us avoid over or under production of eggs. The system means we can provide a fair and stable return for farmers without having to rely on subsidies or taxpayer dollars. It also ensures that there is no over-production or shortage of eggs, which means a fair price for consumers.

Supply management provides a stable income for farmers and an affordable and high-quality product to consumers without costing taxpayers a penny. Supply management also benefits Canadian communities by strengthening Canadian egg farms, creating local jobs and opportunities.