Egg shortages are becoming increasingly common in grocery stores across the United States, with a combination of factors disrupting the supply chain.
A widespread outbreak of avian flu has devastated bird populations, while operational changes at major retailers and rising costs have added to the problem, leaving shelves empty and prices soaring just in time for the holiday season.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), egg production fell by 2.6% in October 2024 compared to the same period last year.
A primary driver of this decline is the ongoing outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5), which has been detected in birds across 49 states since January 2022.
Over 100 million birds, including egg-laying hens, have been affected by the virus, causing disruptions in the supply chain and limiting availability in stores.
Compounding the issue, cage-free facilities, which house 40% of the nation’s 300 million egg-laying hens, have experienced a disproportionately high rate of infections, with these farms accounting for 60% of recent cases. This has particularly affected states like Utah, Oregon, California, and Washington.
Some stores have pointed to other reasons for the shortages.
A Trader Joe’s location in Chicago attributed its limited supply to an operational shift, stating it is in the process of transitioning to exclusively cage-free eggs. Customers at Whole Foods Market have similarly reported empty shelves, with staff citing difficulties sourcing eggs that meet the chain’s high standards.
The shortage has also led to steep price increases.
Reports show that the cost of eggs has risen by 147% since President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took office, with a dozen eggs now costing around $4 compared to less than $1.50 in previous years.
Experts warn that these high prices are unlikely to ease anytime soon, potentially persisting into 2025. Critics blame inflationary policies for exacerbating the financial burden on American families, particularly during the holiday season.
For those who manage to purchase eggs, Lisa Steele, author of Fresh Eggs Daily, offers a simple method to ensure they are still fresh. Place the egg in a glass of water—if it sinks and rests flat at the bottom, it is safe to use. However, if it floats, it should be discarded.
The combination of avian flu outbreaks, supply chain disruptions, and rising prices has made eggs harder to find and more expensive for many Americans. As grocery costs continue to climb, families are feeling the strain, especially during the holiday season when budgets are already stretched thin.