Egg Price Hike 2: Egg Prices and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

In this second installment of our series, we focus on the role of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in the rising egg prices. Eggs are an inelastic good, meaning demand remains steady despite price increases. They are an affordable and healthy source of protein, especially in applications like baking where no good substitutes exist. Because of this, supply factors—like the loss of egg-laying hens—can have a major impact on prices.

According to market intel shared by the American Farm Bureau, since 2022, HPAI has affected over 166 million birds, including 127 million egg layers, leading to an average loss of 42 million egg layers annually. This has resulted in reduced egg supplies and higher prices. In January 2025, the national average price for large Grade A eggs reached a record $4.95 per dozen. By March, prices surged to $8.15 per dozen.

Unlike previous outbreaks, this one persists, as the virus continues to circulate among wild birds and poultry. The growing number of backyard flocks has created more opportunities for the virus to spread.

For more, visit https://www.fb.org/market-intel/egg-prices-continue-setting-records