In recent months, North Carolina shoppers have been met with sticker shock at the egg aisle, as prices have soared to unprecedented levels. The surge in egg costs is primarily attributed to a severe outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, which has decimated poultry populations nationwide.
Escalating Prices at the Checkout
As of February 2025, the average cost for a dozen Grade A eggs in the United States has reached $4.95, surpassing previous records. In North Carolina, prices are even higher, with consumers paying between $4.48 and $4.53 per dozen for large and extra-large eggs, respectively. This significant increase reflects a broader national trend, as egg prices have risen by approximately 15% in recent weeks.
Impact of Avian Influenza
The primary driver behind these escalating prices is the ongoing HPAI outbreak. Since its resurgence in early 2024, the virus has led to the culling of over 111 million birds across the United States, severely impacting egg production.
In North Carolina, a state with a robust poultry industry, farmers have been hit hard. Alex Simpson, president of Simpson Eggs, which manages 1.6 million hens, expressed deep concern over the crisis, emphasizing that despite farmers’ best efforts, the situation remains dire.
State Officials Weigh In
North Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Steve Troxler, has addressed the issue, cautioning residents that relief may not be imminent. “Egg prices are soaring, but they likely won’t come down anytime soon,” Troxler stated during a recent agricultural forum.
The state’s Department of Agriculture continues to monitor the situation closely, providing regular updates through its Agricultural Marketing Service.
Ripple Effects on Consumers and Businesses
The surge in egg prices has had a cascading effect on both consumers and businesses. Many North Carolinians are feeling the pinch, with some turning to alternative sources, such as raising backyard chickens, to mitigate costs. Local feed stores have reported a spike in demand for chicks and poultry supplies, as residents seek self-sufficiency in egg production.
Restaurants and bakeries, heavily reliant on eggs for their menus, are also grappling with the increased costs. Some establishments have resorted to implementing surcharges to offset expenses. For instance, popular chains have added a 50-cent surcharge per egg to their dishes, a move that has sparked mixed reactions among patrons.
National Outlook and Future Projections
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has projected that egg prices may continue to rise, potentially increasing by more than 20% this year.
This projection is based on ongoing challenges posed by the HPAI outbreak and its impact on the national egg supply. The USDA’s Economic Research Service continues to monitor market conditions, providing updates on production and pricing trends.
Efforts to control the spread of avian influenza are underway, with federal and state agencies collaborating to implement stringent biosecurity measures. However, the virus’s persistence suggests that consumers and businesses alike may need to brace for sustained high prices in the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
The sharp rise in egg prices in North Carolina reflects a complex interplay of factors, predominantly the devastating impact of avian influenza on poultry populations. As the state navigates this crisis, consumers, businesses, and policymakers must adapt to the evolving landscape, seeking both short-term solutions and long-term strategies to bolster the resilience of the egg supply chain.
(Source : forbes.com )
