Egg Prices Soar Amid Avian Flu and Inflation Concerns

Egg Prices Soar Amid Avian Flu and Inflation Concerns

Egg Prices Soar Amid Avian Flu and Inflation Concerns

Egg prices have reached historic highs, and it looks like we’ll be feeling the impact for a while. Thanks to the ongoing avian flu outbreak and general inflation, eggs are becoming one of the most expensive staples in the grocery store. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts a 20% increase in egg prices this year, far outpacing the 2.2% average rise in overall food costs.

Why are eggs so affected? The primary culprit is the avian flu, which has devastated the population of egg-laying hens. Over 17 million birds were lost in late 2024 alone, and outbreaks continue in states like California, Missouri, and Ohio. With such a massive loss of supply, the market is struggling to keep up with demand, especially since eggs are such a versatile and essential ingredient in everyday diets.

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In December 2024, the average price of a dozen large eggs hit $4.15, up from $3.65 just a month earlier, marking a 36% year-over-year jump. This price spike isn’t just affecting households; some grocery stores are even limiting egg purchases to prevent panic buying. The situation has become so dire that in places like New York and California, wholesale prices for a dozen eggs have gone as high as $8.35.

Emily Metz, the CEO of the American Egg Board, put it bluntly: “Until we have time without any new detections, this very tight egg supply is going to persist.” With over 20 consecutive months of record-high demand, holiday cooking trends, and supply chain challenges, it’s no surprise we’re seeing such steep costs.

For now, it seems like high egg prices are here to stay until the avian flu is under control. Whether you’re baking, frying, or scrambling, expect to pay more to keep those eggs on the table.

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