A nationwide shortage of eggs is impacting grocery stores across the United States. The culprit is the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu, which has decimated laying hen populations. The shortage is particularly acute in states with legislation requiring 'cage-free' eggs.
Americans across the United States are encountering empty or nearly empty egg shelves at grocery stores . Fox News host Jesse Watters observed this trend on his show 'Jesse Watters Primetime' on January 22, stating, 'You can't get eggs anywhere, I mean anywhere. I can only get the bad ones that just are not yellow and aren't fluffy.' He specifically mentioned the difficulty in finding his preferred pasture-raised eggs in New Jersey.
The shortage is attributed to the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu, which has significantly impacted egg farmers. Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, explained that the U.S. lost over 40 million laying hens to bird flu in 2024, straining the national egg supply. While the entire country is experiencing egg shortages, Metz noted that states with laws requiring 'cage-free' eggs in grocery stores are facing a more severe situation. These states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Metz pointed out that cage-free farms were disproportionately affected by HPAI late last year, leading to supply disruptions in states with this legislation. She emphasized that bird flu does not discriminate based on farm size or housing environment, as it is carried by wild birds. When a laying hen tests positive for bird flu, the entire flock is culled to prevent further spread, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Egg production is a complex and time-sensitive process, and Metz stated that once a farm is affected by HPAI, it takes several months to a year to repopulate flocks, further contributing to the supply issues. Adding to the challenges, egg demand has been consistently increasing for 22 consecutive months. Metz highlighted that the winter holidays, with increased demand for baking and entertaining, further exacerbate the situation. However, she remained optimistic, stating that egg farmers are working diligently to move eggs across the country to meet the highest demand areas. Metz emphasized that keeping their birds safe and healthy is every egg farmer's top priority, and they are committed to protecting their birds, replenishing supply, and ensuring a continuous flow of eggs
Egg Shortage Bird Flu HPAI Grocery Stores Cage-Free Eggs Food Shortages
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