The U.S. egg shortage is expected to worsen as the holiday season approaches and may continue into 2025.

Egg production dropped by 2.6% in September and 1.6% in August due to bird flu outbreaks in several states, which led to the loss of millions of birds.

The USDA has adjusted its fourth-quarter production forecast down to 1.98 million dozen eggs.

Factors contributing to the shortage include smaller flocks, high feed costs, and a lower egg production rate per hen.

Egg prices have risen significantly, with wholesale prices up by $1.84 from last year, Newsweek has reported.

The shortage is expected to persist into early 2025, influenced by ongoing bird flu risks from migrating wild birds.

Written by B.C. Begley