Cracks may be developing in the egg market as prices start to shift. For months, consumers have faced a tough reality: fewer eggs available at sky-high prices.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Recently, wholesale egg prices dropped by $1.20, averaging around $6.85 a dozen. This decrease, around 15% from the previous week, might be a sign that grocery store prices could soon follow suit. The USDA’s latest report noted that the decline in prices comes as demand for shell eggs lessens, especially since there haven’t been any significant outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) for nearly two weeks. This break has allowed production efforts to catch up and help ease some of the shortages.
In a recent statement, President Trump took credit for the falling prices, emphasizing the efforts of his administration, including the work of the Agriculture Secretary. Even so, consumers are still feeling the pinch at checkout. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins revealed a $1 billion investment plan to tackle soaring egg costs, but she admitted it would take “three to six months” for the market to stabilize.
The realities of the market remain challenging. Economist Bernt Nelson from the American Farm Bureau Federation pointed out that egg prices hit new heights in 2025, with millions of birds, particularly egg-layers, lost in the past months due to avian flu. February saw egg prices increase by 10.4%, although this was an improvement compared to the 15.2% spike in January. Overall, year-on-year prices surged by nearly 58.8%. The avian flu has devastated flocks, with around 127 million egg-laying birds culled since 2022, leading to continuous shortages and higher costs.
In response to these challenges, the Trump administration’s strategy focuses on improving biosecurity, sending epidemiologists to support farmers, and exploring new vaccines. Interestingly, the USDA reported that egg imports from Mexico and Turkey will help alleviate some supply issues, contributing a total of 827,000 dozen eggs to the U.S. market.
Despite the recent price drop, egg prices may rise again soon. With Easter and Passover approaching, demand will spike, much like during big holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. The USDA indicated that while current lower demand might allow producers to rebuild their stock, prices could still increase in the lead-up to the spring holidays.
As Secretary Rollins noted, the Easter season typically brings the highest egg prices. Although this year’s holidays are set for April 12 and April 20, they also align with the spring migration of wild birds. This migration is crucial because wild birds often contribute to the spread of avian flu, continuing to threaten egg-laying flocks.
Emily Metz, President of the American Egg Board, highlighted this risk. Farmers are monitoring the migration closely, understanding it poses an ongoing challenge for egg producers.
As consumers navigate these fluctuating prices and the uncertainties of the market, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared for what’s coming next.
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