• The U.S. government has unveiled a $1 billion plan targeting surging egg prices driven by avian influenza.
• The strategy includes funding for biosecurity measures, assistance for impacted farmers, and negotiations to import foreign eggs.
• Consumers should expect rising prices leading up to Easter, with reductions hoped for over the summer.

The escalating cost of eggs in the U.S. has prompted the government to develop a comprehensive five-part strategy designed to lower prices and address supply disruptions. As highlighted by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, the plan involves a significant investment of up to $1 billion, aimed primarily at combating the adverse effects of an ongoing avian flu outbreak that has decimated poultry populations since late 2021.

This multifaceted approach consists of $500 million devoted to bolstering biosecurity measures on farms, $400 million designated for financial relief to farmers affected by the avian influenza, and $100 million allocated for further research into vaccines and therapeutics for chickens. The inflation of egg prices, which have soared over 53% year-over-year, underscores the need for such immediate actions, as reported in the latest Consumer Price Index.

In tandem with domestic strategies, the administration is making strides to import eggs from other countries, potentially seeking to bring in between 70 million to 100 million eggs in the coming months. Rollins confirmed that negotiations are ongoing but did not specify the countries involved, although it is known that Canada and Turkey are likely contenders, with Turkey announcing intentions to export 420 million eggs to the U.S. this year according to the central union of egg producers.

Further complicating the situation, many grocery stores are imposing limits on egg purchases while major breakfast chains adjust their pricing due to supply chain costs. Rollins expressed empathy for families grappling with the high prices, stating, "To every family struggling to buy eggs: We hear you, we're fighting for you, and help is on the way." However, she cautioned that while immediate measures are being implemented, a significant drop in prices may not materialize until the summer months.

The USDA's evaluation outlines an urgency to reinforce the domestic egg market's stability as it considers **temporary import options** to alleviate financial strain on consumers in the short term.