Biden Administration Policies Send Prices Soaring – Still!

Egg prices soar as Biden administration policies and bird flu outbreak wreak havoc on poultry industry.

At a Glance

  • Egg prices have surged 65% since the start of 2024
  • Bird flu outbreak has led to the culling of over 20 million egg-laying hens
  • Average price per dozen eggs reached $4.15 in December, with further increases expected
  • White House attributes price hikes to Biden administration’s policies and chicken culling
  • Grocery stores impose purchase limits due to shortages

Biden Administration Policies and Bird Flu Impact Egg Prices

The Biden administration’s economic policies and a severe outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have led to a dramatic increase in egg prices across the United States. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted the administration’s role in the price surge during a recent press briefing.

According to Leavitt, the Biden administration’s actions have significantly contributed to the egg shortage and subsequent price increases. “I would like to point out to each and every one of you, that in 2024, when Joe Biden was in the Oval Office or upstairs in the residence sleeping, I’m not so sure, egg prices increased 65% in this country,” Karoline Leavitt said.

Bird Flu Outbreak Decimates Poultry Population

The bird flu outbreak, which began in 2022, has led to the culling of over 140 million birds, primarily egg-laying chickens. This massive reduction in the poultry population has created severe supply challenges for farmers and retailers alike.

“As far as the egg shortage, what’s also contributing to that is that the Biden administration and the Department of Agriculture directed the mass killing of more than 100 million chickens, which has led to a lack of chicken supply in this country, therefore, a lack of egg supply, which is leading to the shortage,” Karoline Leavitt said.

The USDA has spent over $1.14 billion compensating farmers for culled birds and an additional $576 million on response efforts. Despite these measures, the industry continues to struggle with maintaining adequate supply levels.

The average price per dozen eggs nationwide reached $4.15 in December, with projections suggesting a further 20% increase this year. Some regions are experiencing prices more than double the average, with organic and cage-free eggs being even more expensive.

The situation has become so dire that grocery stores have begun imposing limits on egg purchases. Retailers are struggling to maintain stock, particularly for organic and cage-free options. The average price per Universal Product Code (UPC) for eggs has hit a record high of $6.30 across the top 15 egg brands.

In response to the ongoing crisis, farmers are implementing extensive biosecurity measures to protect their flocks from infection. These measures include truck washes, shower facilities, and even the use of lasers to deter wild birds from landing on their farms.

The egg crisis is having a ripple effect on other sectors of the food industry. Prices for turkey, milk, and chicken have also been affected and consumers are feeling the pinch, with many adjusting their shopping habits in response.