Shoppers looking to buy eggs are now facing strict purchasing limits as grocery stores struggle to keep up with demand. Major retailers, including Costco and Trader Joe’s, have imposed restrictions as egg supplies dwindle due to widespread poultry culls.
Health officials have ordered the destruction of over 148 million birds since 2022 in response to bird flu cases. The loss of millions of egg-producing hens has caused major supply disruptions, leaving grocery chains unable to meet customer demand.
To manage shortages, Trader Joe’s has set a one-dozen-per-customer limit, while Whole Foods has restricted sales to three cartons per visit. Sprouts Farmers Market has capped purchases at four dozen eggs per transaction, notifying customers that availability will remain inconsistent.
In Illinois and Missouri alone, 60 stores have implemented purchase limits. Reports from customers indicate that eggs are selling out almost as soon as they are restocked, with some locations seeing entire shelves emptied within minutes. Videos circulating on social media show customers rushing to grab what’s left.
Egg prices have skyrocketed, reaching an average of $3.82 per dozen—more than double the 2020 price. Some areas have reported prices surpassing $9 per carton, making eggs one of the most expensive grocery staples. Restaurants like Waffle House have introduced surcharges to adjust for rising costs.
Government projections suggest prices will continue to climb, with an estimated 20% increase expected this year. Despite consumer frustration, federal officials continue to rely on mass culling as their primary strategy for addressing bird flu outbreaks.
