NACOGDOCHES, Texas (KTRE) – Experts predict egg prices will remain high this winter as cases of bird flu continue to be confirmed across the United States.
The average retail price of eggs has increased 38% since November last year, according to the Consumer Price Index. It rose 8% in the last month alone.
David Anderson, an economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, said several factors are driving up prices, one of which is the avian influenza virus, which is easily transmitted among wild and domestic birds.
“This is quite deadly and our response to prevent the spread of the disease is to euthanize all birds on the property,” he said.
Most recent bird flu cases have occurred in northern Gulf Coast counties, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Anderson said the virus often matches the migration patterns of wild birds throughout the year.
“I don’t know, it’s going to get worse, but I think we’re going to be dealing with this problem for a long time to come,” he said.
Bird flu is impacting supply and demand, especially for holiday baking, as more people shop for groceries.
“Some of our favorite recipes call for eggs, which suddenly become in high demand at this time of year. But our producers are struggling with this animal disease that wipes out egg-laying herds. ,” Anderson said.
Some grocery stores may place limits on the number of cartons shoppers can purchase at one time to help balance supply and demand.
“Seeing signs like this is a mechanism to ensure that everyone has eggs available when they need them,” Anderson said.
He believes prices will eventually come back up. But it will take time for producers to replace lost herds.
“We’re talking about eggs, which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Either way, it’s going to take time to increase these supplies,” Anderson said.
Copyright 2024 KTRE. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
