Egg prices are breaking records, forcing shoppers to adjust their budgets as rising demand, production shortages and inflation fuel the ongoing price hike. The spike is largely attributed to ongoing Avian Flu outbreaks, which have devastated poultry farms and further supply.

“Eggs used to be a regular part of my breakfast, but now since the prices are going high, it’s becoming a problem to maintain and consume it,” said Neha Adhikari, freshman biochemistry major. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture  has revised its forecast for egg prices, now projecting a sharp increase of 41.1% this year. This marks a significant jump from last month’s estimate of 20%. Despite the nationwide average, some consumers are facing even steeper costs, with prices soaring above $12 per dozen in certain regions. 

Rising egg prices are being driven by a strain of a highly-pathogenic avian influenza , especially the H5N1 variant, which decimated 13.2 million commercial egg laying hands in December alone. The virus continues to impact flocks into 2025 according to the USDA. First detected in the U.S. in 2022, H5N1 one is considered the primary cause behind ongoing rise in egg prices.

“We are facing a shortage of eggs as well due to the flu. Along with being expensive, it has been scary as well if I think about my health,” Adhikari said.

Carson Kay, assistant professor in communication studies, believes that the increase in egg prices is due to current concerns about avian flu resulting in there being a high demand of eggs and supply being quite low.

“Last time I bought eggs they were around $7 for 12, which was a lot. So, I certainly feel that I use eggs more sparingly in my life now,” Kay said. 

As egg prices rise, many are forced to rethink their daily meals and budgets.

Edited by Jayme Thompson and Jeremy Ford.