A recent outbreak of bird flu has had a significant impact on the poultry industry in the United States, resulting in the need to cull millions of chickens each month. This has caused egg prices to more than double since the summer of 2023, with no immediate relief in sight as Easter approaches.
In December, the average price per dozen eggs nationwide reached $4.15, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts a further 20% increase in prices this year. Some regions are already experiencing prices that are more than double the national average, leading to empty shelves in grocery stores and restrictions on the number of eggs customers can purchase.
The bird flu outbreak, which began in 2022, is the primary reason behind the surge in egg prices. When the virus is detected on a poultry farm, the entire flock is culled to prevent its spread. Given that large egg farms house over a million chickens, even a few infections can lead to a shortage in the egg supply.
Additionally, laws mandating cage-free egg production in ten states have contributed to supply disruptions and price increases. These laws require minimum space for chickens or cage-free conditions for egg-laying hens, further impacting the availability and cost of eggs.
Bird flu is challenging to control as it is primarily spread by wild birds such as ducks and geese during migration. The virus can be transmitted through droppings or interactions between wild and farm-raised poultry. Unlike previous outbreaks, the current strain did not diminish in high summer temperatures and has even affected dairy cattle, providing more opportunities for the virus to persist and spread.
Farmers have implemented stringent biosecurity measures to protect their flocks, including disinfection protocols for vehicles and facilities, as well as investing in technologies like laser deterrents for wild birds. While future vaccines may offer some relief, widespread vaccination of millions of chickens is not currently feasible.
The outbreak has incurred significant costs for farmers, with the USDA compensating them over $1.14 billion for culled birds. The prices of other poultry products like turkey and chicken, as well as milk, have also been impacted by the bird flu outbreak.
As the industry grapples with the ongoing challenges posed by bird flu, consumers are facing higher egg prices and limited availability of certain varieties. The repercussions of the outbreak are being felt across the supply chain, from farmers to retailers, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of animal diseases on the food industry.
