The U.S. Egg Crisis: Rising Prices, Market Shortages, and Unprecedented Theft Incidents
The United States is currently grappling with a significant egg shortage, leading to soaring prices and even instances of large-scale theft. This crisis has multifaceted origins and far-reaching implications for consumers, businesses, and the agricultural sector. Causes of the Egg Shortage A primary driver of the current egg shortage is the outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. In the last quarter of 2024, approximately 20 million egg-laying hens succumbed to the virus, drastically reducing the nation's egg production capacity. This reduction in supply has been exacerbated by ongoing supply chain disruptions and increased production costs, creating a perfect storm that has strained the egg market. Impact on Prices The diminished supply of eggs has led to a sharp increase in prices. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a dozen Grade A large eggs rose to $4.15 in December 2024, up from $2.51 in December 2023. Experts predict that pr...