Egg Shortages Lead to Purchase Limits at Major Grocers
A nationwide egg shortage is forcing major grocery chains, including Costco, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s, to enforce purchase limits as bird flu outbreaks drive up prices and reduce supply.
At Trader Joe’s, customers are restricted to one dozen eggs per day, while some Kroger locations have implemented a two-dozen limit. Costco has also introduced similar caps in response to dwindling inventory.
Why Are Egg Prices Soaring?
The primary cause of the shortage is an ongoing outbreak of avian influenza (bird flu), which has decimated poultry flocks across the U.S.. Since early last year, millions of hens have been culled to prevent the virus from spreading, significantly reducing egg production.
In just one month, egg prices surged by 14%, and analysts predict a 20% increase by year’s end. This has led some restaurants and bakeries to introduce “egg surcharges” to offset rising costs.
How Consumers Are Affected
With eggs becoming a staple affected by inflation, shoppers may need to adjust their grocery budgets or seek alternatives like plant-based egg substitutes. Meanwhile, experts advise buying in bulk when possible and checking local farms or farmer’s markets for more stable pricing.
Looking Ahead
Industry insiders warn that egg prices may continue to climb until poultry farms can rebuild flocks and stabilize production. Until then, consumers should expect continued limits at grocery stores and higher costs at restaurants.
