Egg Prices Soar in US

Egg prices in the United States have hit a record high, with the average cost of a dozen Grade A eggs reaching $4.95 in January. This price is more than double what it was just a few months ago in August 2023.

The main culprit behind this dramatic increase is an ongoing bird flu outbreak. When the virus is detected on a farm, all the chickens must be killed to prevent the disease from spreading. This has led to a significant reduction in the number of egg-laying hens, causing a shortage in the egg supply.

In addition to the bird flu, other factors are contributing to the high prices. Farmers are facing increased costs for feed, fuel, and labor due to inflation. Some states have also passed laws requiring eggs to come from cage-free environments, which can be more expensive to produce.

Consumers are feeling the impact of these high prices. Many people are using eggs less often or finding it difficult to buy them at all, as some stores are struggling to keep their shelves stocked. Unfortunately, experts predict that egg prices are likely to remain high for some time, especially with the upcoming Easter holiday, which typically sees an increase in egg demand.