The theft of approximately 100,000 eggs from a distribution trailer in central Pennsylvania is currently under investigation by authorities. The incident occurred at Pete & Gerry’s Organics in Greencastle, where eggs worth an estimated $40,000 were stolen on a Saturday night. Pennsylvania State Police are actively looking into the matter.
The egg industry has been facing challenges due to an avian flu outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of millions of egg-laying hens. In 2024, nearly half of all bird deaths caused by the virus were egg-laying hens, with a significant number of deaths occurring in November and December, as reported by the USDA.
As a result of the avian flu outbreak, the national average price of eggs has been on the rise, reaching near-record highs. In December, the average price of a dozen large, grade-A eggs was $4.15, up from $3.65 in November. Year-over-year, egg prices were up by more than 36% in December, according to the Consumer Price Index.
Waffle House, a popular diner chain in the South, has announced a 50-cent surcharge per egg due to the nationwide increase in egg costs. The restaurant explained that the ongoing egg shortage has led to the surcharge, which may be adjusted or removed based on market conditions in the future.
