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The reason why the price of eggs has skyrocketed: what is their average price?

Consumers in the United States have noticed that the cost of eggs has soared in recent weeks, and are keen to understand why this has happened.

Why are eggs so expensive?
Mike BlakeREUTERS

Egg prices are on the rise in the United States, further increasing pressure on consumers after a spell of high inflation across the country.

But the latest price rises are not related to the inflationary forces spawned by the post-pandemic economic measures or the ongoing war in Ukraine. Instead, the increased cost of eggs is a simple case of supply and demand.

Egg production has dipped in recent months due to a major outbreak of avian flu towards the end of 2024. There were a number of waves throughout the year but a resurgence in November and December killed more than 17 million egg-laying hens, according to CNN.

Fewer hens means fewer eggs, and fewer eggs means higher prices for consumers. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the average price for a dozen large, A-grade eggs rose from $3.65 in November to $4.15 in December, a 14% increase in a single month. Compared to the previous December, egg prices were up 36% year-on-year.

When will egg prices go down?

Egg prices are hitting new highs as the increased cost of production is passed on to consumers. The situation is reportedly being exacerbated by a trend of panic buying eggs, as shoppers worry that they may not be able to find them in the days to come.

This has even seen some supermarkets limit the number of eggs that customers can buy. Eggs are such a staple for so many people that the increase in price, although significant, is not necessarily affecting the demand. For now, egg production will continue to be hampered by avian flu and the demand is showing little sign of easing.

Not to be the bearer of bad news, but we’re in this for a while,” said Emily Metz, president of the American Egg Board. “Until we have time without a detection, unfortunately this very, very tight egg supply is going to continue.”

“It’s really a crazy situation and an unfortunate situation for consumers because the supply situation is what it is due to the bird flu,” Aldi CEO Jason Hart told Axios.

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