Mon Jan 27 10:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Egg Prices Remain Sky-High Amidst Unprecedented Bird Flu Outbreak

**Washington, D.C.** – Egg prices continue their upward trajectory, reaching record highs and leaving consumers frustrated. While the ongoing avian flu outbreak is a major culprit, contributing to a significant drop in egg supply, increased consumer demand and structural issues within the industry are exacerbating the problem.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a December price of $4.15 for a dozen Grade A large eggs, a sharp increase from $2.51 a year prior. Wholesale prices are even higher, with Midwest large eggs costing $7.27 a dozen, according to Expana, far exceeding the five-year average of $2.10. Smaller retailers average $5.31 a dozen, though prices vary widely depending on location and retailer.

This current bird flu outbreak, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), is unlike previous outbreaks. Unlike the 2015 outbreak which was seasonal, the current HPAI is persistent, spreading not only among birds but also to other animals, including dairy cows and cats, and even humans. Experts like Maurice Pitesky, an associate professor at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, call it the largest animal epizootic ever recorded. The virus’s widespread presence in the environment, from dairy lagoons to human wastewater, makes containment extremely challenging.

The poultry industry, while better prepared than others, is struggling to combat the pervasive nature of the virus. The culling of entire flocks after a single positive case, coupled with difficulties in repopulation, has severely hampered egg production. Experts emphasize that current preventative measures are primarily reactive, lacking a proactive system for predicting and mitigating outbreaks. Furthermore, changing migration patterns and habitat loss are increasing the risk of transmission.

Contributing to the high prices are factors beyond the bird flu. The increasing demand for cage-free eggs, mandated in several states, significantly increases production costs. Additionally, consistent year-over-year increases in egg consumption for the past 22 months, driven by factors like inflation and health consciousness, are putting further strain on supply.

Experts, including Brian Moscogiuri of Eggs Unlimited and Karyn Rispoli of Expana, express pessimism about a return to lower prices in the near future. While seasonal demand fluctuations may offer some temporary relief, the underlying structural issues and the persistent nature of the avian flu suggest a prolonged period of high egg costs. Potential solutions, such as improved virus surveillance, enhanced biosecurity measures, and a potential poultry vaccine, come with their own challenges and costs, ultimately impacting egg prices. The situation, experts agree, is unprecedented and a long-term solution remains elusive.

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