What's happened
Wholesale egg prices have significantly decreased, averaging around $4.15 per dozen, down from over $8 in late February. This decline is attributed to reduced demand and fewer bird flu outbreaks. However, retail prices remain high, raising concerns ahead of Easter and Passover.
What's behind the headline?
Current Trends in Egg Pricing
- Wholesale Prices: Recent data shows a drop in wholesale egg prices, averaging $4.15 per dozen, down from a peak of $8.05. This decline is attributed to a combination of reduced demand and fewer bird flu outbreaks.
- Retail Prices Lag: Despite the drop in wholesale prices, retail prices remain elevated, averaging around $6 per dozen. This discrepancy is due to retailers working through existing inventory purchased at higher prices.
- Market Dynamics: The egg market is experiencing a shift, with increased supply and decreased urgency among consumers. However, the upcoming Easter holiday may lead to renewed demand, potentially affecting prices.
- Future Outlook: Experts predict that if the current trends continue, retail prices may begin to decrease in the coming weeks, but this will depend on the stability of supply and demand dynamics leading up to Easter.
What the papers say
According to Business Insider UK, wholesale egg prices have fallen significantly, with the USDA reporting a decrease to $3.27 per dozen as of late March 2025. This is a marked improvement from the previous highs due to the avian flu crisis. The New York Times notes that while wholesale prices are declining, retail prices may not reflect these changes immediately due to inventory issues. The Independent highlights that the Department of Justice is investigating potential price gouging in the egg industry, suggesting that some producers may be using the avian flu as a cover for price increases. Axios reports that the Trump administration is taking steps to address the crisis, including a $1 billion investment to stabilize egg prices.
How we got here
The surge in egg prices was primarily driven by the avian influenza outbreak, which led to the culling of millions of hens. This resulted in significant supply shortages and price spikes, with wholesale prices peaking at over $8 per dozen in February 2025. Recent reports indicate that the situation is improving.
Go deeper
- What caused the recent spike in egg prices?
- How are retailers responding to wholesale price changes?
- What impact will Easter have on egg prices?
Common question
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Why Have Egg Prices Dropped So Significantly?
Egg prices have seen a dramatic decline recently, with wholesale prices dropping from $8.05 to $4.15 per dozen. This change raises questions about the factors behind the price drop and its implications for consumers, especially with Easter and Passover approaching. Here are some common questions people are asking about this trend.
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Why Are Egg Prices Dropping and What Does It Mean for Consumers?
Recent changes in the supply chain have led to a significant drop in wholesale egg prices, but retail prices remain high. This situation raises questions about the factors influencing food prices and what consumers can expect in the coming weeks, especially with holidays approaching.
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Why Have Egg Prices Dropped So Significantly?
Egg prices have seen a dramatic decline recently, leaving many consumers wondering about the reasons behind this shift. With wholesale prices dropping from over $8 to around $4.15 per dozen, it's essential to understand the factors at play and how they might affect your shopping experience, especially with Easter approaching.
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Why Are Egg Prices Dropping and What Does It Mean for Consumers?
Egg prices have seen a significant decline recently, but what does this mean for consumers? With wholesale prices dropping from over $8 to $3.27 per dozen, many are left wondering about the implications for their wallets, especially with Easter approaching. Here are some common questions and answers regarding the current state of egg prices.
More on these topics
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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The United States Department of Agriculture, also known as the Agriculture Department, is the U.S. federal executive department responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food.