The avian flu outbreak is significantly impacting U.S. egg prices, leading to a doubling in costs since summer 2023. Farmers are forced to slaughter millions of chickens monthly, causing supply shortages just as demand surges with the Easter holiday approaching. As a result, prices have risen to an average of $4.15 per dozen, with some shoppers experiencing even higher costs or empty shelves. Cage-free egg regulations, affecting multiple states, further exacerbate the price increases and supply chain disruptions. Experts predict prices might increase another 20% this year, leaving consumers frustrated and incensed.
"It's just robbery," said Minneapolis resident Sage Mills, who bought eggs to bake a birthday cake last week. "Eggs used to be kind of a staple food for us, but now you know, you might as well just go out to eat."
The bird flu outbreak that started in 2022 is the main reason egg prices are up so much. Anytime the virus is found on a poultry farm, the entire flock is slaughtered to help limit the virus' spread.
More than 145 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds have been slaughtered since the current outbreak began, with the vast majority of them being egg-laying chickens.
The Agriculture Department predicts prices are going to soar another 20% this year, driven by demand increases as Easter approaches and ongoing supply constraints.
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