FLOSSI AND THE AVIAN FLU

In 2025, the United States has experienced a significant surge in egg prices, primarily due to the ongoing outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. This outbreak has led to substantial losses in poultry populations, severely impacting egg production and supply.

Impact on Egg Prices:

• National Average: As of December 2024, the average price for a dozen eggs reached $4.15, marking a 65% increase from the previous year.

• Regional Variations: In certain areas, prices have escalated even further. For instance, in California, the average price for a dozen eggs has approached $9, reflecting a 70% increase from the prior year.

Contributing Factors:

• Avian Influenza Outbreak: The HPAI outbreak has been devastating, with over 130 million birds affected across all 50 states since its onset in 2022. This has led to a significant reduction in egg-laying hens, thereby decreasing egg production.

• Supply Chain Disruptions: The loss of millions of egg-laying chickens has strained the supply chain, leading to shortages and, consequently, higher prices.

• Increased Demand: Seasonal factors, such as the holiday baking season, have heightened demand for eggs, further exacerbating the supply-demand imbalance.