The ongoing bird flu pandemic has decimated the US egg-laying chicken population, leading to widespread egg shortages and record-high prices. Major grocery chains are implementing purchase limits, and experts warn that shortages will persist. Meanwhile, Ohio reports its first case of bird flu in a human, adding to concerns about the virus's impact.
Over 148 million birds have been culled since the beginning of the highly pathogenic avian influenza ( HPAI ), also known as ' bird flu ,' pandemic over three years ago. This massive loss of egg-laying chickens has led to ongoing shortages and skyrocketing prices for eggs, forcing several major US grocery chains to implement purchase limits. Trader Joe's, for example, is limiting customers to one dozen eggs per day per person, while Whole Foods has imposed a three-carton limit.
Kroger has also confirmed that some of its banner divisions are restricting egg sales to two dozen per purchase.Experts warn that these shortages are likely to persist as bird flu outbreaks continue to affect the US laying hen population. The cost of eggs has surged dramatically in recent months, jumping over 15% in January alone compared to the previous year. This surge far outpaces the overall US inflation rate of 3%. In 2019, a dozen eggs cost around $1.54, but by last year, the price had climbed to $4.15, a staggering 170% increase. The avian flu outbreak, which claimed the lives of over 40 million egg-laying birds last year, is the primary driver behind this price spike. Adding to the concerns, Ohio recently reported its first case of bird flu in a human. A male farm worker from Mercer County contracted the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) after coming into contact with deceased commercial poultry. This case marks the 68th confirmed human infection of HPAI across 11 states since the beginning of 2024. Tragically, one person in Louisiana succumbed to the virus. While there is some hope that egg prices may rise at a slower pace throughout the year, the situation remains dire for consumers facing soaring food costs at home and in restaurants
Bird Flu Avian Influenza Egg Shortages Food Prices HPAI Ohio
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