Egg production has decreased, and prices are climbing as the holiday season approaches, primarily due to the ongoing impact of a persistent strain of H5N1 avian influenza. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, over 73 million egg-laying hens have been affected by this strain, causing egg prices to surge. As of November 8, the wholesale price of a dozen eggs in New York had reached $4.50, up from just over $2 per dozen in early October. The price increase began in mid-October and continued at a rapid pace, eventually leveling off at the end of the month.
Experts predict that egg prices will remain volatile throughout the holiday season due to the ongoing bird flu outbreaks, which are also affecting turkey production ahead of Thanksgiving. The virus has led to a reduction in turkey production by about 6% compared to last year, with over 14 million turkeys impacted. In addition to the economic strain, the virus has been detected in dairy herds across 16 states, exacerbating supply chain issues.
Lawmakers, including Rep. Ruben Gallego, have called for immediate action, urging the Secretary of Agriculture to approve vaccines to combat both bovine and avian influenza, as ongoing outbreaks threaten to further inflate egg prices during the holiday season.
Peoplesmind
