cnbc.com
U.S. Egg Prices Surge 38% Amid Bird Flu Outbreak and Holiday Demand
The average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. has risen 38% since November 2023 to \$3.65, primarily due to a serious bird flu outbreak that killed 33 million egg-laying hens and increased holiday demand.
- How has the current bird flu outbreak impacted egg supply and wholesale prices?
- The current egg price surge is a direct consequence of a "serious outbreak" of bird flu, which has killed approximately 33 million commercial egg-laying hens in 2024, significantly reducing egg supply. This coincides with peak consumer demand during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season, exacerbating the price increase. Wholesale egg prices have increased by 97% since mid-October, further demonstrating the impact of these factors.
- What are the primary causes of the recent 38% increase in U.S. egg prices since November 2023?
- Since November 2023, the average U.S. retail price of eggs has increased by 38%, reaching \$3.65 per dozen in November 2024 from \$2.14 a year prior. This surge follows a similar price spike in 2022-2023, reaching a peak of \$4.82 per dozen in January 2023. The current increase is primarily due to a significant bird flu outbreak and increased holiday demand.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the ongoing bird flu outbreak on the egg industry and food prices?
- The long-term impact of the bird flu outbreak on egg prices remains uncertain. The persistence of the virus, with recent outbreaks in dairy cows and human cases among poultry workers, poses a significant risk to future egg production and prices. The USDA's recent order for mandatory bird flu testing in the milk supply indicates the widespread concern surrounding the virus's potential to further disrupt agricultural production and increase food prices.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing emphasizes the negative impact of the egg price increase on consumers. While this is understandable, the article could benefit from a more balanced approach by also exploring the challenges faced by egg producers due to the bird flu outbreak. The headline and introduction could be improved to reflect this more nuanced perspective.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and objective. However, phrases like "serious outbreak" and "record highs" might be considered slightly loaded, although not significantly so. More precise phrasing could enhance objectivity. For instance, "widespread outbreak" or "highest prices in recent years" would offer more neutral alternatives.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the bird flu and holiday demand as causes for the egg price increase. While these are significant factors, the analysis omits other potential contributing elements such as transportation costs, feed prices for chickens, or the impact of large-scale egg producers on market prices. This omission might lead readers to oversimplify the reasons for the price surge.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of the situation by primarily focusing on the bird flu and holiday demand as the two main causes for the price increase. It doesn't delve into the complexities of the interplay of various economic and environmental factors that might contribute to the situation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The significant increase in egg prices due to bird flu and high demand directly impacts food affordability and access, particularly for low-income households who rely on eggs as a staple, affordable protein source. This threatens food security and exacerbates existing inequalities in access to nutritious food.