In recent years, the outbreak of bird flu has wreaked havoc on poultry and dairy farms across the United States, causing egg prices to skyrocket and creating significant challenges for both producers and consumers. Since its initial detection in North America in late 2021, avian influenza has led to the culling of millions of birds, severely impacting production and causing egg prices to rise dramatically. In 2024, the price of eggs experienced a steep increase, with some customers reporting prices exceeding a dollar per egg. The challenge continues as new outbreaks and investigations into potential price gouging by producers emerge.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now predicting that egg prices could climb by an additional 41% in 2025, exacerbating the financial burden on consumers. According to the USDA, more than 166 million birds have been slaughtered to prevent the further spread of the virus, with over 30 million layers killed just in the first quarter of 2025 alone. In states heavily impacted by avian flu, egg prices have soared, with some stores reporting prices as high as $12 per dozen.
As consumers continue to face these heightened costs, the U.S. government has announced a series of measures aimed at curbing the spread of bird flu and lowering prices. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a plan involving a $1 billion investment to enhance biosecurity measures on farms, alongside additional aid for farmers whose flocks have been severely affected by the virus. Furthermore, the administration is exploring vaccine options and potentially restructuring certain animal welfare regulations, including California's cage-free requirement. Rollins stated, "It’s going to take a while to get through, I think in the next month or two, but hopefully by summer," emphasizing the need for patience as the poultry market stabilizes.
Despite these intentions, the Justice Department has launched an investigation into whether some egg producers are taking advantage of the situation and engaging in price gouging. In March 2025, reports indicated that significant increases in egg prices coincided with the ongoing outbreak, prompting scrutiny over corporate practices. Reports from the non-profit Food and Water Watch suggest that while avian flu is a major factor, corporate consolidation may be encouraging excessive price increases beyond what would be reasonable.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data reveals an alarming trend related to imported egg products, highlighting the role human behavior plays in spreading diseases like bird flu. In fiscal year 2025, there have been 5,572 interceptions of egg products at U.S. borders, which is a significant increase. This spike is attributed primarily to travelers unaware of the restrictions on bringing certain egg products from foreign locations where avian flu is prevalent. Officials emphasize the dangers of such imports, citing the potential for further health risks to domestic bird populations.
Bird flu's impact isn't limited to poultry farms; it has also affected wild bird populations. A recent outbreak among eared grebes in Utah resulted in the death of 15,000 to 25,000 birds near the Great Salt Lake, raising alarm about the virus's toll on biodiversity. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, over 170 species of North American birds have been recorded with infections, with the overall threat to humans, however, considered low.
On the bright side, reports suggest a decrease in the number of bald eagles confirmed to be infected with the virus, with numbers dropping from 427 cases in 2022 to 48 in 2024. Observations indicate a record migration of bald eagles through northern Minnesota, suggesting that the species may be making a comeback. Experts believe that those who survived early infections may now possess some level of acquired immunity.
The financial toll of bird flu is staggering, with consumers facing the reality of covering a dramatic increase in egg prices that ballooned to an average of $4.95 per dozen—a price that has more than doubled since before the outbreak began. The USDA’s predictions underscore a continued rise, putting additional pressure on households already struggling with inflation and increased grocery costs.
These developments highlight the complex interplay between agricultural practices, wildlife protection, and market dynamics. It is a reminder of how interconnected our food systems are, affected not just by diseases like avian flu but also by the regulatory frameworks and corporate practices at play. As agricultural officials work to stabilize both the poultry industry and the wild bird populations, consumers watch closely, hoping for relief from skyrocketing prices.
With additional funding and ongoing government investigations into market practices, the future for egg prices and poultry production remains uncertain. While scientists and agricultural leaders emphasize the importance of biosecurity and proper management to prevent future outbreaks, the current crisis has crystalized the pressing need for resilience in our agricultural systems.
