Egg Prices Drop Sharply Following USDA Intervention
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's $1 billion plan to combat avian flu and stabilize egg prices has led to a significant price decrease after months of record highs.
- The average price of a dozen eggs has fallen by $1.85 in the last two weeks, now at $6.08, compared to $8 at the start of March.
- The USDA's $1 billion initiative includes $500 million for biosecurity measures, $400 million in financial aid for farmers, and $100 million for vaccine research.
- Avian flu outbreaks have killed over 160 million birds since 2022, severely impacting the poultry industry and contributing to soaring egg prices.
- The Department of Justice is investigating potential price manipulation in the egg market, focusing on whether producers colluded to inflate prices.
- Restaurants and consumers have faced surcharges and high costs due to the egg shortage, with some businesses exploring alternative solutions like backyard chicken rentals.