Avian Flu Drives U.S. Egg Prices to Record Highs

A severe bird flu outbreak has killed millions of hens, disrupting supply chains and pushing egg prices to unprecedented levels.

The current bird flu outbreak has resulted in the deaths of over 20 million egg-laying hens in late 2024, significantly reducing egg supply nationwide.
Egg prices have surged nearly 40% year-over-year, with the average cost of a dozen eggs reaching $4.15 in December 2024, and further increases are predicted for 2025.
States with cage-free egg laws, such as California and Oregon, are experiencing even higher prices, with some areas reporting costs nearing $9 per dozen.
Experts warn that it could take up to nine months to replenish egg-laying hen populations, meaning shortages and elevated prices may persist through much of 2025.
The outbreak highlights vulnerabilities in the U.S. food supply chain, with calls for improved biosecurity measures to prevent future crises.