Egg shortage arises from avian flu outbreak in the US

In March 2025, a severe avian flu outbreak severely impacted egg production in the United States, resulting in mass culling of hens. This unfortunate situation created a significant shortage of eggs across the nation. By the end of February, the average price for a dozen eggs soared to an astonishing $5.90, doubling within a year. By March, prices in California further escalated, reaching around $10.35 per dozen, which raised concerns among consumers about affordability amidst rising inflation levels. Consequently, many Americans resorted to purchasing their own hens or even smuggling eggs from Mexico to circumvent the scarcity in their local supermarkets. The desperation for eggs has led to a unique chain reaction; reports surfaced of Americans traveling to Mexico, significantly increasing demand for eggs in border areas like San Diego, where the purchase of eggs from Mexico saw a spike of 158%. This trend has sparked lighthearted commentary among Mexicans, with some referring to the situation as the emergence of an 'egg cartel.' American consumers, facing increased egg prices and concern over avian flu, have also turned to plant-based alternatives like Just Egg, manufactured by the Bay Area company Eat Just. They reported a five-fold increase in demand, showcasing a shift towards vegan substitutes amidst rising animal product prices. Amid all these developments, the political landscape has also experienced repercussions. President Trump has acknowledged the inflation crisis during his campaign, particularly addressing the rising grocery prices, which include eggs. Trump hinted at a recent stabilization of prices, claiming a 25% decrease over the previous weeks, but public skepticism remains regarding these claims. Experts point out that the steep increase in egg prices is primarily driven by the avian flu and the consequent hen culling, leading to concerns over future supply stability and price fluctuations. Consumer sentiment surrounding food prices will likely continue to be a pressing issue as the U.S. government grapples with inflation across various sectors, particularly in the food industry. The avian flu crisis has thus opened wider conversations regarding food sustainability and the treatment of farmed animals. As the demand for plant-based substitutes grows in response to these challenges, it raises questions about the future of traditional investments in livestock farming and the agricultural sector as a whole.