The Golden Eggs: A Modern Fable

The ancient fable of the golden goose warned against greed and impatience. Today, in the United States, it seems every ordinary hen has transformed into that mythical bird: a dozen eggs now costs prices that might make you think they’re made of precious metal. However, this time, it’s not a greedy farmer killing the goose—it’s a combination of factors, from inflation to avian flu outbreaks, that have turned this staple into a near-luxury item. Unlike the fable, these modern «golden eggs» are weighing heavily on American consumers’ wallets.

he Egg Crisis in the U.S.: An Analysis of Price Drivers

The U.S. egg market has experienced significant volatility in recent years, with sharp price increases impacting consumers. This phenomenon, turning a basic food item into a financial concern for many families, deserves a closer look at its causes and future outlook.

The Perfect Storm: Key Factors

1. Avian Flu Threat: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has devastated the poultry industry, forcing producers to cull millions of hens and disrupting supply chains.
2. Avian Flu Threat: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has devastated the poultry industry, forcing producers to cull millions of hens and disrupting supply chains.
3. Consumer Demand: Eggs remain a versatile, affordable protein source, maintaining high demand despite price hikes. Post-pandemic consumption patterns have added additional pressure.

Government Response

The U.S. government has implemented measures to address the crisis:

• Enhanced HPAI surveillance and control programs.
• Economic support and subsidies for affected producers.
• Price monitoring to prevent speculative or anti-competitive practices.

2025 Outlook

The future of the egg market presents both stabilizing factors and persistent challenges:

1. Stabilization: Gradual recovery of production capacity, improved biosecurity, and potential easing of inflationary pressures.
2. Challenges: Ongoing HPAI threats, high production costs, and sustained consumer demand.

Consumer Adaptation

Consumers are adapting by seeking alternatives, focusing on promotions, and adjusting shopping habits. However, the market’s volatility is expected to continue in the short to medium term.

Why Are Eggs So Expensive?

Experts point to avian flu as the primary driver, alongside rising labor and operational costs. According to the USDA, retail egg prices hit record highs due to significant HPAI outbreaks.Over 133 million poultry, including 40 million egg-laying hens, have been affected by avian flu.

Todd Applegate, a poultry science professor at the University of Georgia, explains that it takes 18-20 weeks for a hen to mature and begin laying eggs. This delay means production won’t recover overnight, keeping prices high for now.