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Egg Smuggling Surges as U.S. Prices Stay High Following Avian Flu Outbreak

A sharp rise in egg smuggling from Mexico highlights economic strain and biosecurity concerns as U.S. officials crack down on illegal imports.

Main: A limit sign hangs over a display of brown eggs in a Costco warehouse Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Sheridan, Colo. Inset: Fentanyl under a ventilation hood at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, Sunday, March 16, 2025, in San Diego.
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Seizures of black market eggs have increased by 36 per cent compared with last year

Overview

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported a 36% increase in egg-related seizures compared to the same period last year, with some regions like San Diego seeing a 158% spike.
  • Egg prices in the U.S. hit record highs in early March, averaging $5.90 per dozen, driven by avian flu outbreaks that led to the culling of millions of chickens.
  • Eggs in Mexico remain significantly cheaper, costing about a third of U.S. prices, making them an attractive option for smugglers despite import bans and fines for violations.
  • The U.S. government is investigating potential price manipulation by large egg producers and has allocated $1 billion to improve biosecurity and stabilize supply.
  • Egg prices have started to decline slightly from their peak, but they remain historically high, prompting continued smuggling attempts and strict enforcement at border crossings.