The recent resurgence of bird flu has significantly driven up egg prices globally, impacting consumers and industries alike. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has ravaged poultry facilities, leading to massive hen fatalities and reduced egg production.
The United States has been particularly hard-hit, with millions of egg-laying chickens dying in recent months. This has caused egg prices to skyrocket, with consumers facing historically high costs. Other countries, including Mexico, Japan, and Indonesia, have also experienced price increases due to bird flu and additional factors such as heatwaves and increased demand for eggs as a more cost-effective alternative to meat.
In Mexico, a severe heatwave has caused significant hen fatalities, pushing prices up by 30%. Japan, the second largest consumer of eggs per capita, has reported bird flu cases across several prefectures, leading to price hikes of over 20%. Similarly, in Indonesia, prices for purebred chicken eggs have risen more than 10% since the start of the year.
The impact of avian flu on the poultry industry has been devastating. In the US alone, over 14 million egg-laying chickens died in November and December 2023. The last 30 days have seen more than 8 million birds among America’s commercial flocks remain infected, exacerbating the situation.
Globally, countries including the US, EU, Russia, South Africa, India, and Nigeria are facing historically high egg prices. This has led some consumers to start stockpiling eggs in anticipation of further price increases. Others have turned to alternative strategies, like freezing eggs, to manage costs and maintain supply.
Experts attribute the soaring egg prices primarily to the impact of bird flu on egg farms. However, other factors have also contributed to the increase. As meat prices reach record highs, eggs have become a cost-effective alternative for many households. This increased demand has put further pressure on egg prices.
Consumers are advised to consider alternative strategies to manage the cost of eggs. The US Department of Agriculture recommends freezing egg products for extended shelf life, ensuring optimal quality for up to one year.
