US Egg Prices Hit Record High of ₹430/Dozen Amid Bird Flu Outbreak
The United States is witnessing a significant surge in egg prices, with the average cost of a dozen Grade A eggs reaching a record high of $4.95 (₹430) in January, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. The price hike is largely attributed to the ongoing bird flu outbreak, which has led to a significant reduction in egg production. As a result, consumers are likely to face higher costs for their daily eggs.
The CPI report, which tracks inflation and prices of essential goods, shows that the average price for a dozen Grade A eggs rose by 15% in January, surpassing the previous record of $4.82 (₹418) set two years ago. Notably, in August 2023, eggs cost a relatively affordable $2.04 (₹177)/dozen.
The bird flu outbreak, also known as Avian Influenza, has been affecting poultry farms across the United States, resulting in widespread egg production disruptions. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the country has seen a significant increase in the number of bird flu cases, with over 37 million birds affected since the outbreak began in December 2022.
The impact of the bird flu outbreak on egg production is substantial. The USDA reports that the number of laying hens, which are responsible for producing eggs, has decreased by over 10% due to the outbreak. This reduction in egg production has led to a shortage in the market, driving up prices.
The latest price hike is not limited to Grade A eggs. The price of Grade B eggs, which are often used in food manufacturing and are of lower quality, has also increased significantly. According to the CPI data, the average price of Grade B eggs rose by 12% in January, reaching $3.42 (₹299) per dozen.
The price surge has significant implications for consumers, particularly those who rely heavily on eggs as a protein source. For many low-income households, eggs are a staple food item, and the increased cost may put a strain on their budgets. Additionally, the price hike may also affect the food industry, as restaurants and food manufacturers may need to increase their costs to maintain profitability.
While the bird flu outbreak is the primary driver of the price hike, other factors have also contributed to the increase. The war in Ukraine has disrupted global grain supplies, leading to a shortage of feed for poultry farms. This shortage has driven up the cost of feed, which is a significant expense for poultry farmers.
Furthermore, the global supply chain has been disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased transportation costs and delays in the delivery of goods, including eggs. These additional costs have been passed on to consumers, contributing to the overall price increase.
The US government has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the bird flu outbreak on the egg industry. In December 2022, the USDA announced an emergency declaration, allowing poultry farmers to receive financial assistance to help them recover from the outbreak. Additionally, the agency has implemented measures to increase biosecurity on poultry farms, aiming to reduce the spread of the virus.
In conclusion, the US egg prices have reached a record high of $4.95 (₹430) per dozen amid the ongoing bird flu outbreak. The price hike is attributed to a combination of factors, including the outbreak, supply chain disruptions, and increased feed costs. As the situation continues to unfold, consumers may need to adjust their spending habits to accommodate the increased cost of eggs. It remains to be seen how the industry will respond to the crisis, but one thing is certain – the world will be watching closely as egg prices continue to rise.
