Bird Flu Outbreak Doubles US Egg Prices
Egg prices in the United States have doubled since August 2023, reaching $4.10 per dozen at the end of 2024, as a widespread bird flu outbreak continues to disrupt supply chains.
The US Department of Agriculture forecasts a 20% price increase for eggs in 2025, far outpacing the projected 2.2% rise in overall food costs.
The virus has affected more than 145 million birds across all 50 states since 2021, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. A recent surge killed approximately 17.2 million egg-laying hens in November and December alone.
Waffle House, a restaurant chain serving 272 million eggs annually, has implemented a 50-cent surcharge per egg at its 2,100 locations. The Georgia-based company said it would adjust the fee based on market conditions.
The National Restaurant Association reports the impact has been particularly severe for breakfast-focused establishments, with egg costs rising nearly 40% over the past year.
Current prices remain below the decade’s peak of $4.82 per dozen recorded in early 2023, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Emily Metz, president of the American Egg Board, said farmers have improved their response to outbreaks but warned supply constraints could persist. “Until we have time without a detection, unfortunately, this very, very tight egg supply is going to continue,” she said.
The USDA indicates supply and pricing will stabilize only when farms can recover their flocks from the ongoing outbreak.
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