The US egg market is facing a severe shortage due to the highly contagious avian influenza. The virus has claimed the lives of nearly half of all birds killed by it in 2024, according to the USDA. This has led to a significant decline in egg production, causing shortages and price increases.
According to Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, the recovery process will take six to nine months. The shortage is not only affecting local markets but also causing empty store shelves and higher prices.
In December, the average price of a dozen eggs rose by 25% compared to November, with prices up 37.5% year-over-year. Several grocery stores, including Publix and Morton Williams, are experiencing egg shortages due to the shortage.
Extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes in the southeastern United States, have delayed the spread of wild birds that carry the virus, allowing it to spread further. The situation is expected to last for several months, affecting not only local markets but also grocery stores across the country.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/14/business/egg-shortage-bird-flu/index.html