In March 2025, egg prices in the U.S. soared to a record high of $6.23 per dozen, up from $5.90 in February and $4.95 in January, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This spike occurred just before Easter, traditionally a period of high egg demand. Contributing factors included widespread bird flu outbreaks that necessitated the culling of millions of chickens, leading to significant shortages.
Climate Change and the Egg Supply Chain
Climate change is increasingly disrupting the poultry industry, with extreme weather events like droughts and floods affecting feed crop production and leading to higher costs for poultry farmers. Fluctuating temperatures also stress poultry, making them more susceptible to diseases such as avian flu.
Heat stress is a significant concern, as birds are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures due to their inability to sweat. Prolonged exposure can lead to reduced feed intake, decreased egg production, and increased mortality rates. Additionally, high humidity levels can create environments conducive to the proliferation of pathogens, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases and other infections.
The availability and quality of feed and water resources are also affected by climate change. Changes in precipitation patterns and extreme weather events can disrupt the supply of feed ingredients and water, posing significant challenges for poultry farmers. Reduced crop yields can lead to higher feed prices, increasing the cost of poultry production. Water scarcity can lead to dehydration, heat stress, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
The Avian Flu Factor
The recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have led to the culling of millions of egg-laying hens, significantly reducing supply. While disease outbreaks are natural occurrences, their frequency and severity are exacerbated by the changing climate, which alters migratory patterns of wild birds and creates favorable conditions for virus transmission.
Economic Implications and Market Dynamics
The recent surge in egg prices has not only strained household budgets but also raised questions about market practices within the egg industry. In March 2025, egg prices in the U.S. soared to a record high of $6.23 per dozen, marking the third consecutive month of increases . This spike occurred despite a slight drop in overall inflation, highlighting a disconnect between general economic trends and specific commodity prices.
Amid these rising prices, Cal-Maine Foods, the nation's largest egg producer, reported a net income of nearly $510 million from December 2024 to February 2025 . Such substantial profits during a period of consumer strain have prompted the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate potential price-fixing and market manipulation within the industry. This scrutiny highlights the complex interplay between environmental factors, such as avian flu outbreaks, and corporate practices in determining food prices.
Consumer Adaptations and Alternatives
In response to soaring egg prices, consumers are turning to creative and cost-effective alternatives. Social media has fueled a trend of dyeing unconventional items such as marshmallows and potatoes for Easter celebrations. Additionally, affordable and accessible egg substitutes like aquafaba, flaxseed, and chia seed gels are gaining popularity among vegans and those with allergies.
These adaptations not only address immediate cost concerns but also reflect a broader shift towards dietary flexibility and sustainability. As consumers become more resourceful, the food industry may need to respond with greater transparency and innovation to meet evolving demands.
Looking Ahead
The egg price surge is a microcosm of a broader trend: climate change is not a distant threat but a present-day reality affecting our food systems and wallets. Addressing this requires a multifaceted approach, including sustainable farming practices, robust disease monitoring, and transparent market regulations.
