US Launches $1 Billion Plan to Address Soaring Egg Prices
The federal government unveils a multi-faceted strategy to combat avian flu and stabilize egg supply, but experts caution that relief will take months.
- Egg prices have surged to record highs, averaging $4.95 per dozen, driven by a devastating avian flu outbreak that began in 2022 and has affected 166 million birds.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $1 billion plan, allocating $500 million for farm biosecurity, $400 million in financial aid for farmers, and $100 million for vaccine research.
- The plan also includes reducing regulations on egg production and exploring temporary imports to supplement domestic supply, though experts say global egg availability is limited.
- Avian flu continues to devastate egg-laying hen populations, with nearly 31 million birds lost in 2025 alone, creating significant challenges for flock recovery and supply stabilization.
- Industry leaders and economists agree there is no quick fix, with egg prices expected to remain elevated for months as biological and logistical constraints slow recovery efforts.