Egg Prices Surge to $4.95 Per Dozen Amid Bird Flu Crisis

Record Egg Prices

Egg prices have surged to a record high of $4.95 per dozen in January, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase surpasses January 2023's previous record of $4.82. In December last year, the average cost was $4.15 per dozen.

Factors Driving Up Costs

This sharp rise in egg prices is linked to an ongoing bird flu outbreak that has led to the death of over 100 million egg-laying hens. Whenever the virus is identified on a farm, the entire flock must be culled to contain the spread. Additionally, states like Oregon, Washington, and California mandate cage-free eggs in stores, further contributing to higher costs.

Significant Increases Observed

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 15.2% increase in egg prices over the last month.
• In some areas, like California, a carton of eggs can exceed $9.
• The increase in egg costs accounted for about two-thirds of the total rise in monthly food prices at home.

New York has closed live bird markets following the detection of seven bird flu cases, with the governor emphasizing the need for public health precautions. Additionally, the food index overall rose by 0.4% in January, with meats, poultry, and fish increasing by 1.9%.