Egg Prices Skyrocket in the US Due to Avian Flu and Economic Pressures

The American breakfast table staple, eggs, has seen a dramatic surge in prices, with many consumers choosing to forgo purchasing them until prices drop to $5 per dozen, according to a report by Clarify Capital. This decision is fueled by a combination of economic strain and the ongoing issues caused by the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreaks, which have decimated the US egg supply. The price of a dozen eggs has skyrocketed from $1.49 in 2018 to over $5 today, highlighting the severity of the situation. The USDA predicts another 40% price hike in 2025, further exacerbating consumer hardships. Michael Baynes, Clarify Capital CEO, emphasized the emotional and financial toll of these price hikes on consumers. Eggs, traditionally an affordable nutrient source, now resemble luxury goods, forcing some consumers to seek alternatives like plant-based eggs and flaxseed. The USDA, led by Secretary Brooke Rollins, has stepped in with plans to invest in biosecurity, financial relief for farmers, and vaccine development, while exploring import options to alleviate the crisis. Yet, despite these efforts, the road to recovery appears long, with bird flu still rampant. Amid this turmoil, former President Trump lauded Rollins for her work in lowering prices, noting a 59% decrease in egg prices and suggesting an improving supply situation. As the Justice Department investigates potential price manipulation by egg producers, the situation remains tense. The report anticipates the stress felt by families trying to manage their budgets and the enduring implications on consumer behavior if prices do not stabilize soon.