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The Dave Chang Show

Understanding the Avian Flu Part 2: Economics With Dr. David Ortega

Apr 3, 2025
Dr. David Ortega, a food policy expert from Michigan State University, joins the conversation to tackle the economic implications of the avian flu outbreak. He discusses how chicken and egg shortages are influencing consumer behavior and prices across the market. The talk dives into historical patterns of food shortages and innovation, examining how these crises often lead to new food products. Additionally, Ortega highlights the disproportionate effects on low-income households, providing critical insights into future challenges for food supply and accessibility.
52:19

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The avian flu outbreak has drastically affected the poultry sector, leading to soaring egg prices and widespread consumer confusion about risks.
  • Inflation and changing consumer behaviors illustrate the economic principles of supply and demand, significantly impacting food pricing and availability.

Deep dives

Understanding Avian Flu and Its Impact

The avian flu outbreak, specifically H5N1, has emerged as a significant issue affecting the poultry industry, particularly in egg production. This unprecedented multi-year outbreak has resulted in the loss of millions of birds, contributing to soaring egg prices and a notable egg shortage. The situation has highlighted the challenges of effectively communicating risks associated with the flu to the public, as sensationalized media headlines often lead to confusion. It's essential to comprehend how these events disrupt food supply chains and inevitably impact consumer costs and choices.

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