Rising global egg prices are attributed to widespread bird flu outbreaks.
- Egg prices have increased by 60% since 2019 due to avian flu.
- North America and Europe have been majorly affected, with millions of birds culled.
- UK farmers face difficulties with flock management amid ongoing risks.
- Investment and innovation are prominent in attempts to stabilise the egg industry.
The global escalation in egg prices has been critically influenced by recurrent bird flu outbreaks, which have substantially disrupted supply chains. The Financial Times reports that these prices are now 60% higher than their 2019 levels. This significant increase is largely due to widespread avian flu cases that have necessitated the culling of tens of millions of birds across North America and Europe.
In the United States alone, nearly 33 million commercial laying hens have been culled this year in efforts to manage the spread, while the United Kingdom has also experienced numerous outbreaks throughout 2023, culminating in the last recorded case in February.
Farmers in the UK are particularly struggling; some have been compelled to downsize their flocks or even exit the industry entirely, as noted by a prominent figure in the sector. This ongoing uncertainty and difficult environment foreshadow potential future shortages.
Additionally, the rising costs and shortages of eggs are poised to impact global food brands and manufacturers, who rely on this core ingredient for diverse product ranges.
Amidst these challenges, notable investments and innovations within the UK egg industry are emerging. For example, a significant initiative by Lidl involves a £1 billion investment over the next five years to bolster the British egg sector. Moreover, Sainsbury’s has pioneered a development group to support its egg suppliers.
The interplay of bird flu outbreaks and proactive industry investments exemplifies the complexity of current global egg market dynamics.
