US border agents are seizing more smuggled eggs than fentanyl, government data shows, as record-high egg prices drive an underground poultry market.
US Customs and Border Protection has recorded 3,768 seizures of bird and poultry products at US borders since October, compared with 352 fentanyl seizures during the same period, according to an analysis by The Logic.
Attempted egg smuggling has risen 36% compared to last year, with the San Diego field office near Mexico reporting a 158% increase. The Detroit field office on the Canadian border has seen a similar 36% rise.
The surge is likely pushed by domestic egg prices reaching $4.95 per dozen earlier this year, with some cities reporting prices as high as $10. Prices have climbed due to avian flu outbreaks, rising production costs, and supply chain disruptions.
“It appears there are more eggs being smuggled into the US from Canada right now than fentanyl,” said Matthew Holmes, chief of public policy for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Official data indicates less than 1% of US fentanyl seizures occur at the northern border.
Authorities warn that smuggled eggs pose health risks as they bypass US inspection standards for handling, refrigeration, and sanitation, potentially exposing consumers to salmonella and other contaminants.
The US Department of Justice has launched an investigation into whether domestic egg producers have artificially inflated prices by restricting supply, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Fresh eggs are prohibited from entering the US due to disease concerns, similar to restrictions on raw chicken and unprocessed bird products.
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