As Muslims prepare for Aïd al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, on May 3, 2026, the price of sheep at butcher shops has become a key barometer of the livestock market. According to recent data from France's agricultural ministry, sheep prices at wholesale markets have stabilized around €8-10 per kilogram, but retail prices at butchers range from €12 to €15 per kilogram, reflecting supply chain costs and demand.
This year, the French government has reiterated its guidelines for the ritual sacrifice, which must be performed in approved slaughterhouses to ensure animal welfare and hygiene standards. The price difference between wholesale and retail highlights the role of butchers as intermediaries, with many offering whole or half sheep for families.
Market analysts note that the cost of feed and transportation has increased by 5% compared to 2025, contributing to the retail price. However, competition among butchers in neighborhoods with large Muslim populations, such as in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, has kept prices relatively stable.
For consumers, the butcher price is often seen as a more reliable indicator than wholesale indices, as it includes all costs from farm to table. The French Muslim community, estimated at 5-6 million, typically spends between €200 and €400 per family for the sacrifice, depending on the size and quality of the animal.
