HOUSTON – As egg prices soar to unprecedented levels, many people are exploring alternative ways to secure their supply of this breakfast staple.
The average price for a dozen large Grade A eggs reached $4.95 in January, according to federal data, surpassing the previous peak of $4.82 in January 2023. This marks a significant increase from last January’s average of $2.52.
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The dramatic price hike, which has seen a 50% increase over the past year, is largely due to the highly infectious bird flu that has devastated chicken populations, reducing egg supplies.
More than 13 million hens have been lost or slaughtered since December due to the outbreak, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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In response to these rising costs, some people are considering raising their own hens.
Sarah Kerns, a mother of two, is contemplating this option.
“Why not? We have a backyard, you know. We have a house. We can do it. It’s cheaper doing that than having to buy,” she explains. “We go through a lot of eggs. You know, we have kids, like, they eat a lot of eggs. We go through at least like six eggs a day. Yeah. So, it adds up pretty quick.”
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This sentiment is echoed by many, as sales of egg-laying hens have surged by 225% at Wabash Feed and Garden.
“Now maybe the only time in history that raising chickens for eggs is cheaper than buying eggs in the grocery store,” said store manager, John Berry.
The shortage of eggs on store shelves has left many feeling insecure about their food supply.
“Not having eggs on the shelf is like not having milk on the shelf,” Berry remarks. “It makes people feel insecure about their food supply a little bit.”
