Egg Prices Surge as Bird Flu Devastates U.S. Poultry Supply

Waffle House and other restaurants introduce temporary surcharges as record-high egg prices strain businesses and consumers alike.

The ongoing avian flu outbreak, which began in 2022, has led to the culling of over 145 million birds, including 110 million egg-laying hens, severely reducing egg supply in the U.S.
Egg prices have risen dramatically, with wholesale costs for a dozen eggs reaching $7.76 in some areas and retail prices increasing by 36.8% year-over-year as of December 2024.
Waffle House has implemented a temporary surcharge of 50 cents per egg, joining other restaurants and grocers in adapting to the price surge by raising prices, limiting purchases, or exploring egg alternatives.
Experts predict egg prices will remain high through at least May 2025 due to continued supply shortages, seasonal demand, and the potential for further bird flu outbreaks during migratory seasons.
Smaller farms and specialty egg suppliers have seen increased demand, while some businesses are rethinking recipes, reducing egg-centric menu items, or exploring vegan alternatives to manage costs.