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What Next: Which Came First, the Bird Flu or the Egg?
Nov 27, 2024
In this enlightening discussion, Marcia Brown, a food and agriculture reporter at POLITICO, dives into the rising cost of eggs due to avian flu. She explains how increasing cases affect food prices and the broader implications for supply chains. The conversation highlights the challenges federal agencies face in handling outbreaks amid public health risks. Brown shares insights on farmers' frustrations with federal responses and how factors like deportations complicate tracking the virus, ultimately intertwining public policy with food safety.
26:44
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Quick takeaways
- The significant rise in egg prices is primarily driven by the avian flu outbreak, impacting poultry supply and food costs.
- Farmers are intensifying biosecurity measures to protect livestock and adapt to new regulations amid public health concerns regarding avian influenza.
Deep dives
Impact of Avian Influenza on Egg Prices
Recent trends indicate a significant rise in egg prices, largely attributed to an ongoing outbreak of avian influenza, particularly H5N1. In 2022, a dramatic increase in both egg and food prices was observed, with overall food costs rising 20% since 2020, and egg prices reflecting this inflation. The avian flu has led to substantial losses in poultry, with around 24 million birds affected this year alone, particularly impacting cage-free laying hens due to their vulnerability. This trend raises questions about the long-term implications for egg pricing and availability, especially as outbreaks continue to persist.
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