Due to the ongoing bird flu outbreak, the prices of commercially produced eggs have skyrocketed, leading many shoppers to opt for higher-end, specialty eggs sold by farmers of pasture-raised hens. These specialty eggs are seen as more humane, sustainable, and tasty, with prices remaining stable despite the egg shortage caused by the avian influenza wiping out poultry flocks. The average price of a dozen eggs has increased from $2.52 to $4.95 within a year.
Farmers like Pete & Gerry’s have managed to keep their prices steady at around $6.99 for a dozen eggs for the past 18 to 24 months. Labels like “cage-free,” “free-range,” and “pasture-raised” indicate the farming practices used, with pasture-raised hens being able to roam outside to graze. Egg prices have nearly doubled since 2024, but small and organic egg producers have been less affected by supply and demand fluctuations compared to commercial producers.
Organic and cage-free egg farmers produce only 15% of the nation’s eggs, but they are struggling to meet rising demand as their products become more price-competitive. Farmers like Matt Watson and Larry Schultz adhere to sustainable farming practices, with Watson noting that the ongoing egg shortage may persuade more consumers to consider pasture-raised eggs despite higher prices.
The USDA forecasts a minimal increase in table egg production from 2024 to 2025, but the demand remains high and inelastic, leading to increased prices even as egg supplies dwindle. Schultz, whose organic eggs are now more affordable than commercial ones, has seen a surge in demand for his products but remains committed to his small-scale farming practices.
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