Bird Flu Outbreaks Devastate Poultry Industry, Send Egg Prices Soaring
-
A bird flu resurgence this year killed over 72 million birds and sent egg prices surging. Cases are rising again, threatening more egg price hikes.
-
The disease is highly contagious and can wipe out entire flocks quickly. More birds have died in recent months, signaling trouble.
-
Cal-Maine Foods, the top US egg producer, had an outbreak at one facility. Over 680,000 hens were infected.
-
Wholesale egg prices spiked in November by 58.8% and 71.2% amid supply crunches, per government data. Prices could spike again if shortages return.
-
Egg producers plan inventories around holiday demand spikes at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas when egg demand peaks.