Significant Drop in U.S. Egg Prices as Avian Flu Impact Diminishes
U.S. consumers are experiencing a significant relief at the grocery store as egg prices have seen a sharp decline of 42% over the past year. The average retail price now stands at approximately $2.50 per dozen. This dramatic price drop is attributed to the less severe impact of avian flu on America’s egg-laying chickens this winter, compared to the previous year.
As per livestock economist David Anderson of Texas A&M University, the U.S. currently has about 9 million more hens laying eggs than this time last year. “We’ve had the time to expand the flock of egg-laying chickens, and that’s helped bring down prices,” Anderson elaborated. Emily Metz, president of the American Egg Board, encouraged consumers to make the most of this price drop, stating, “There’s never been a better time to buy eggs,” especially with Easter around the corner.
While consumers are benefiting from the price drop, egg farmers are facing challenges as wholesale prices have plunged more than 90% to around 70 cents a dozen—falling below many producers’ production costs. This follows the devastating 2025 avian flu outbreak that decimated tens of millions of laying hens, leading to severe shortages and skyrocketing prices that forced some supermarkets to ration eggs.
Farmers have since implemented enhanced biosafety measures to prevent future outbreaks. These include employee shower protocols, laser systems to deter wild birds, and strict biosecurity controls. However, the virus hasn’t been completely eradicated, with outbreaks still being reported in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and North Carolina.
Source: NPR