Saxony: Germany's gosling stronghold on St. Martin's Day!

Saxony: Germany's gosling stronghold on St. Martin's Day!

The Federal Republic of Germany is booming in goose production, and at the forefront is Saxony, the real stronghold of poultry. Almost every second gosling that hatches in Germany comes from this federal state. As the State Statistical Office in Kamenz published, impressive figures were announced for this year's St. Martin's Day: Around 44 percent of all goslings in the Federal Republic come from Saxony, which makes the region an undisputed leader. Borkener Zeitung reports that around 628,000 goose eggs were placed in incubators, from which 390,900 goose eggs hatched. This represents a slight increase compared to the previous year - exactly 700 more young animals (0.2 percent).

Pre-Christmas goose boom

In the Saxon geese industry there are numerous companies that have specialized in the reproduction of these feathered meat suppliers. Of the seven poultry hatcheries in Saxony, four focus on goslings. Lorenz Eskildsen's family business from Grimma is an example of success in this industry. Eskildsen has kept the tradition alive for 32 years and has made a name for himself by selling around 15,000 adult geese each year. Tag24 supports this information and adds that the sale of goose meat is particularly fiery in the high season, around the Christmas holidays. The geese are particularly popular on December 21st and 22nd.

Another focus is on the preparation of the goose, which is traditionally stuffed with apples and onions and served with red cabbage, dumplings and a tasty sauce. This dish is particularly popular at Christmas and ensures that demand remains high.

Market situation and economic development

Saxon goose production is not only important for the region, but also represents an important part of the German poultry sector. In 2023, a total of around 1.5 million tons of poultry meat was produced in Germany. Geese make up a small but important part of the offering, along with chickens, ducks and turkeys. With a steady decline in farms - from around 80,000 in 1992 to around 2,980 in 2023 - Saxony, with its highly specialized goose farms, is an important exception. According to Statista, trend demand shows that in 2023 per capita consumption of poultry was around 13.1 kg, with chicken meat being the most popular variety.

However, a look into the future of the poultry industry shows that, among other things, the challenges posed by the war in Ukraine and rising costs for animal feed and energy are influencing prices in the poultry sector. Due to these general conditions, consumers must expect a price adjustment next year. The German poultry industry, which includes more than just geese, faces exciting challenges and opportunities.