Egg Prices Hit Record High Amid Poultry Crisis

HPAI And Inflation Escalate Egg Market Prices

The year 2025 has brought a significant shock to consumers planning for traditional Easter egg hunts - egg prices have soared to record levels. This spike is primarily fueled by the ongoing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak and sustained inflationary pressures, which have together created a challenging environment for egg producers and consumers alike.

The avian influenza outbreak has been particularly devastating, with over 166 million birds affected since 2022, drastically reducing the number of egg-laying hens available.

This loss accounts for about 11% of the average annual layer inventory, leading to a sharp decrease in egg supply and consequently, higher prices. The USDA reports that the average price for a dozen eggs reached an all-time high of $4.95 in January 2025, with prices continuing to climb.

Inflation has also played a critical role in driving up egg prices. While the overall inflation rate has moderated, the costs associated with egg production, such as feed, energy, and labor, have continued to rise.

This has compounded the financial pressures on farmers, who are not necessarily benefiting from higher market prices due to increased production costs.

The resilience of the egg industry is being tested as farmers work to navigate these dual challenges. Efforts to stabilize the industry include enhancing biosecurity measures to protect against HPAI and seeking governmental support to cushion the economic impacts. The situation highlights the vulnerabilities in our food supply system and the need for robust strategies to support agricultural sustainability and food security.

Amidst these challenges, the commitment of the agricultural community to maintaining egg supply while managing economic and health risks underscores the critical importance of the sector to national well-being.

As policymakers and industry leaders continue to address these issues, the path forward will require innovative solutions and continued support for those at the heart of food production.