Not too long ago, eggs were hard to come by. Prices soared, and some stores even had to ration them. Now, things have changed. Eggs are plentiful and cost around $2.50 per dozen, a welcome relief for consumers.
Emily Metz, the head of the American Egg Board, is encouraging shoppers to take advantage of the good prices. “It’s a great time to buy eggs,” she says. The big shift comes after a serious outbreak of avian flu had decimated hen populations, leading to a massive shortage last year.
This winter, the damage from avian flu has been much less severe. While the virus is still around, improvements in farm safety and maybe even luck have led to an increase in the number of hens. Currently, there are about 9 million more hens laying eggs than last year, which has helped lower prices. David Anderson, a livestock economist from Texas A&M University, mentions that this growth has been crucial.
Despite the drop in prices for consumers, egg farmers are facing tough times. While retail prices have decreased by about 42% in the last year, farmers’ wholesale prices have plummeted more than 90%. Many farmers are earning just around 70 cents a dozen, which is often less than what it costs them to produce eggs. Anderson warns, “We’re in territory where it’s probably below producers’ production cost.”
One farmer, Mike Puglisi, shared how the avian flu impacted his life. In 2022, the virus wiped out 80% of his flock. After that, it took almost a year for him to rebuild his henhouses. To protect his birds, he now employs advanced safety measures, including using lasers to deter wild birds.
Puglisi mentions that while chicken feed prices have decreased, many of his other costs have risen. “If you can tell me a way to produce eggs and not lose money, I’m all ears,” he jokes.
With Easter approaching, farmers hope increased demand will help their situation. Metz highlights the holiday’s importance: “Easter is our Super Bowl.” However, there’s a caveat: while egg prices may have dropped, the cost of chocolate eggs is still climbing.
As consumers enjoy lower prices, it’s a reminder that not everyone in the supply chain is thriving. The effects of avian flu and market pressures showcase the complex dance of agriculture and consumer needs.
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