The Impact of Bird Flu on Egg Prices

The ongoing avian flu outbreaks, particularly the highly pathogenic avian influenza, have significantly impacted the egg supply by causing mass mortality rates among chickens. Estimates indicate that between 2024 and early 2025, around 68 million birds have been affected by this disease, which severely diminishes egg production. As many layers in the poultry industry are lost, the demand for eggs remains high among consumers who rely on them as staple food products, leading to sharp price increases. Thus, with a drastic reduction in supply, prices soar, emphasizing the classic economic principles of supply and demand in action.