Eggs are becoming harder to source across the country as farmers are forced to kill off millions of birds due to an avian flu outbreak

The recent surge in egg prices, which soared to an average of $6.22 per dozen in March—a staggering 84 percent increase since the beginning of 2024—clearly reflects the pressing impact of the ongoing avian flu outbreak combined with inflationary pressures. The current spike, surpassing the previous record high of $4.82 from January 2023, has undoubtedly left many consumers feeling the financial strain at grocery stores. As the avian flu continues to wreak havoc, millions of chickens have been culled in an effort to contain the disease, drastically affecting the supply chain. This dramatic reduction is expected to lead to ongoing price increases, with the USDA forecasting a further 20 percent rise in egg prices throughout 2025. Social media has been abuzz with consumers sharing their personal experiences of sky-high egg prices, providing a glimpse into how this crisis is affecting everyday lives. In states like California, stricter regulations around egg production, coupled with significant avian flu cases in areas such as Ohio, illustrate the complexities faced in the egg production industry. Customers are feeling the pinch—complaints about exorbitant egg prices have flooded platforms like Facebook and X, highlighting widespread frustration and disbelief. The political undercurrents further complicate the narrative. Some Republicans have pointed fingers at President Biden's policies as contributing factors to rising costs, contrastingly noting that the price of eggs has fluctuated significantly since the previous Trump administration, which also faced its fair share of economic challenges. The discourse around egg prices underscores a broader conversation about inflation and food security in America. As farmers continue to grapple with flock repopulation amidst persistent avian flu challenges, consumer behavior—often driven by fear of shortages—exacerbates the situation, prompting some retailers to impose purchasing limits on customers. In summary, the ongoing avian flu crisis and its subsequent effect on egg prices are not just a matter of economic data; they're a reflection of the complex interplay between agriculture, policy, and public perception. As we navigate these turbulent times, it remains critical for consumers to be informed and for policymakers to seek sustainable solutions that balance consumer needs with agricultural health.