The shell shock experienced by American consumers is understandable.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a dozen eggs in the United States has increased by 50% in the last year, and the cost growth seems to have accelerated since November, the month Donald Trump was elected president.
According to data gathered by the NIQ consumer research company, the price of a dozen yolks in the week ending January 18 was $5.29, a significant increase from February 2024 when it was just over $3.50 per dozen.
According to BLS data, the cost of a dozen eggs increased somewhat to $3.65 in November and then to $4.15 in December.
According to market analysts and economists, the extremely contagious bird flu that has decimated the chicken population and decreased egg supplies, combined with the increased demand for eggs from consumers that is common over the winter holidays, is the main cause of the price increase.
According to the most recent Egg Markets Overview from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the avian flu outbreak has resulted in the loss or slaughter of almost 13 million hens since December 2024.