• The USDA has projected a 41.1% increase in egg prices by 2025, attributed mainly to rising bird flu cases.
• This follows a record high national average of $4.95 per dozen for eggs noted in January 2025.
• The USDA plans to invest up to $1 billion to combat the egg price crisis and support affected poultry farmers.
• Grocery stores and restaurants are beginning to implement price surcharges and purchase limits due to the supply shortage.
• Recent bird flu outbreaks have significantly reduced commercial egg-laying populations, leading to the current crisis.

According to a recent report by the USDA, egg prices are expected to soar by more than 41% by the year 2025, mainly due to the intensifying impact of ongoing bird flu outbreaks. The alarming projections come shortly after a January report indicated a significant 13.8% and 8.4% increase in retail egg prices, culminating in an average cost of $4.95 per dozen—over 53% higher than the previous year.

Currently, around 18.8 million commercial egg layers have been adversely affected, with widespread culling underway as farmers strive to limit the spread of the virus. The Secretary of Agriculture was quoted as saying that while this strategy "won't erase the problem overnight," there is optimism that it will stabilize the egg market within the next three to six months.

Compounding this issue, President Donald Trump's administration has announced a comprehensive plan involving an investment of up to $1 billion. The funding will support poultry producers in implementing enhanced biosecurity measures, assist farmers impacted by avian influenza, and promote research on vaccines and therapeutics for laying hens. This plan aims to alleviate the economic strain on consumers who have seen egg prices reach unprecedented heights, with some areas reporting cartons exceeding $10.

To cope with the escalating costs, major retailers like Walmart, Sam's Club, and others have recently implemented purchasing limits to ensure broad access to limited supplies of eggs. Additionally, restaurant chains such as Denny's and Waffle House have begun assessing surcharges for egg-based dishes, citing the pressing need to manage the soaring costs while maintaining meal affordability for customers.

The bird flu crisis is not only affecting egg prices. While poultry producers are working diligently to restore supply chains, officials are also monitoring the implications of these outbreaks on other avian products. As the dynamics of food costs shift, further analysis and measures may become necessary.

For more information, visit the full reports from Forbes and ABC News.