US Egg Prices Plummet 60% for Easter After Bird Flu Crisis Eases
American consumers are experiencing a welcome relief this Easter season as egg prices have dramatically fallen by 60% compared to the record highs of last year. This significant price drop makes eggs far more affordable for holiday celebrations, including Easter and Passover, following a tumultuous period in the poultry industry.
Bird Flu Outbreak Blamed for Previous Record Highs
The soaring egg prices in 2025 were primarily attributed to a widespread and devastating bird flu outbreak. This avian influenza crisis necessitated the culling of millions of egg-laying hens across the United States, severely disrupting supply chains and driving retail costs to unprecedented levels during the first five months of that year.
Current Market Conditions and Price Stabilisation
As of February, the average price for a dozen eggs has stabilised at approximately $2.50, marking a substantial decrease from the peak prices observed in 2025. This price reduction is largely due to a notable decline in bird flu cases during the latter half of last year, allowing poultry farmers to rapidly replenish their flocks.
The recovery has been bolstered by an 8% increase in hatched egg-type chicks, helping to restore egg production capacity and meet consumer demand more effectively. Additionally, a strategic decision by the Trump administration to import nearly 1 billion eggs last year played a crucial role in alleviating supply shortages and moderating prices, although import levels have since returned to their normal baseline.
Challenges Persist for Egg Farmers
Despite the positive news for consumers, many egg farmers are grappling with significant financial difficulties. They are often forced to sell eggs at or below their production costs, squeezing profit margins and threatening the sustainability of their operations. There are also growing concerns among farmers about potential increases in feed expenses, which could further exacerbate their economic challenges in the coming months.
The current market dynamics highlight a complex situation where lower prices benefit households but create hardship for agricultural producers, underscoring the fragile balance within the food supply chain.
