Concerns surrounding avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, have triggered a resurgence in egg prices across various regions, leading consumers to adjust their purchasing behaviors.
Following a period of relative stability in 2023, recent outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry facilities across the United States, Japan, and other countries have caused egg prices to surge once again.
The highly contagious and lethal nature of the virus among birds has led to significant losses in egg production. David Anderson, a professor and food economist at Texas A&M University, attributes the surge in egg prices to the impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) on egg farms, resulting in chicken deaths and reduced egg output.
In the United States alone, more than 14 million egg-laying chickens perished due to avian flu in November and December. Recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicates that over 8 million birds among commercial flocks remain infected, with major producers such as Cal-Maine Foods temporarily halting production and culling affected flocks.
Similar challenges are observed globally, with countries facing historically high egg prices. Nan-Dirk Mulder, a senior analyst at Rabobank, notes that regions including the U.S., EU, Russia, South Africa, India, and Nigeria are grappling with elevated price levels.
In Japan, where eggs hold significant cultural and culinary importance, prices have surged over 20% due to reported cases of bird flu in domestic poultry farms.
Meanwhile, Mexico has experienced a price hike driven by extreme heatwaves leading to heatstroke among hens, while Indonesia, a major egg producer, has also witnessed price increases.
In response to escalating prices, consumers worldwide are adapting their strategies. Some are stockpiling eggs in anticipation of further price hikes, while others explore alternative options such as freezing eggs for long-term storage.
Beyond bird flu, other factors such as increased demand for eggs amid rising meat prices contribute to the strain on egg supply. Texas A&M University’s Anderson highlights that eggs can serve as a substitute for higher-priced meats, further driving up egg prices.
The impact of these fluctuations extends beyond individual consumers, with reports from Norway indicating cross-border egg purchases due to shortages during the Easter holiday.
As the global poultry industry grapples with the challenges posed by avian influenza and other factors, stakeholders continue to monitor developments closely, recognizing the complex interplay of economic, environmental, and public health factors influencing egg prices and availability.
