In Missouri, residents are grappling with significantly higher egg prices, as the cost of this essential staple continues to rise.

As of January 2025, the price for a dozen Grade A large eggs reached an average of $6.70, which is more than a 60% increase from just six months ago. This surge in prices has raised concerns for Missouri consumers, as many are forced to adjust their grocery budgets and find alternative protein sources. While the situation may feel like a temporary price hike, experts warn that this trend could continue well into 2025 due to a combination of factors. Let’s break down what’s driving these rising costs and how it’s affecting households across the state.

Why Are Egg Prices So High?

There are multiple factors contributing to the rising price of eggs in Missouri, and they’re all intertwined, with both short-term and long-term consequences.

Avian Influenza Outbreak (Bird Flu)

One of the most significant factors causing egg prices to soar is the avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak, which has spread across the country, including in Missouri. Millions of egg-laying hens have been culled to stop the spread of the disease. With fewer hens laying eggs, the supply has dropped significantly, pushing prices higher. This shortage is felt not only in Missouri but across the United States, where the supply of eggs has been constrained, leading to nationwide price increases. Unfortunately, with no clear resolution to the bird flu in sight, many experts predict that egg prices could continue to climb as the flu spreads through more farms.

Cage-Free Egg Regulations

Another factor adding to the price of eggs is Missouri’s recent regulatory shift toward cage-free egg production. As of 2025, all eggs sold in Missouri must come from cage-free farms, in line with new laws that promote better living conditions for hens. While this move aims to improve animal welfare, it has increased production costs for egg producers. Cage-free systems require more space for the hens, specialized housing, and additional labor to ensure that the hens are comfortable. These changes result in higher costs for farmers, and naturally, the cost is passed on to the consumer. The combination of stricter regulations and the necessary adjustments to farming practices is contributing to the growing price of eggs.

General Inflation and Supply Chain Issues

Inflation has affected nearly every sector of the economy, and eggs are no exception. As the costs of raw materials like chicken feed, energy, and transportation rise, egg producers face higher production costs. Supply chain disruptions, which have lingered since the COVID-19 pandemic, also play a role in the rising cost of eggs. These disruptions have affected the entire food supply chain, including the transport of eggs from farms to grocery stores. With these higher costs being passed down through the supply chain, consumers end up paying more for eggs at the store.

Impact on Missouri Consumers

Missouri residents are feeling the impact of rising egg prices in their everyday lives. Eggs are a cheap and versatile protein, but with prices climbing so quickly, many families are rethinking their grocery lists. For some, the sharp rise in egg prices is forcing them to cut back on purchases, while others are looking for cheaper alternatives to replace eggs in their meals. Products like tofu, beans, and other forms of protein are becoming more popular as substitutes, but they don’t always offer the same convenience or nutritional value that eggs do.

In addition to the price increases, many grocery stores across Missouri have started limiting the number of cartons of eggs customers can purchase. Some stores are imposing a one-carton-per-customer policy in order to prevent hoarding and ensure that more people can access eggs. While these measures help manage the supply, they also add to the frustration of consumers who are already struggling with higher prices for other goods.

Local Business Adjustments and Challenges

Local businesses are also feeling the pinch from rising egg prices. Restaurants and cafes, especially those serving breakfast dishes, are seeing their food costs rise as eggs become more expensive. Some establishments, like Waffle House, have even had to introduce a temporary surcharge of 50 cents per egg to keep up with costs. This surcharge has been added to menu items that contain eggs, such as omelets, to pass on some of the increased costs to customers. However, this solution isn’t ideal, as it means consumers are paying more for the same items they enjoyed before the price increases.

What Can Consumers Do?

As the price of eggs continues to rise, Missouri consumers need to find ways to cope with the higher costs. Some may turn to alternative protein sources, like beans, lentils, or plant-based products, to make up for the higher price of eggs. Others may be able to rely on local farmers or farmer’s markets, where eggs might be cheaper, though availability can be limited.

Additionally, consumers should stay informed about changes in egg prices and look for sales or discounts at their local grocery stores. Some stores may offer promotions or discounts on eggs during certain times of the year, which can help alleviate the burden of the high prices.

Looking Ahead

Experts predict that egg prices could continue to rise through 2025, with a possible increase of up to 20%. Factors such as the ongoing avian flu outbreak, stricter cage-free egg regulations, and continued inflation could all contribute to this price surge. While there is hope that the bird flu will eventually be contained, the combination of supply shortages and increased production costs means that egg prices will likely remain high for the foreseeable future.

The rising cost of eggs in Missouri is a result of multiple factors, including the avian flu outbreak, new regulations, and inflation. Consumers are feeling the impact as they adjust their grocery shopping habits to cope with higher prices. While there is no immediate relief in sight, local businesses and lawmakers are working to address the issue. Until the price of eggs stabilizes, Missouri residents are encouraged to explore alternative protein options and remain aware of any changes that could help mitigate the financial burden caused by rising food prices.