The U.S. is doubling egg imports from Brazil and exploring the use of broiler chicken eggs—previously discarded—to combat soaring prices caused by the worst bird flu outbreak in history, which has wiped out 170 million poultry since 2022.
Key Developments:
Brazilian Egg Imports Surge: U.S. imports of Brazilian eggs (once restricted to pet food) jumped 93% in February, helping supply processed foods like cake mixes and ice cream.
Broiler Chicken Eggs Under Review: The FDA is reconsidering a ban on eggs from meat chickens, which could add 360 million eggs annually to the food supply—if safety concerns are addressed.
Price Crisis Continues: Wholesale egg prices spiked 53.6% in February, forcing restaurants to hike menu prices and states like Nevada and Arizona to suspend cage-free laws.
Why It Matters:
Food Inflation: The shortage has worsened grocery costs, adding pressure to Trump’s $1 billion plan to stabilize prices through farmer aid and vaccines.
Safety Debate: While industry groups argue pasteurization eliminates risks, FDA previously rejected broiler eggs over salmonella fears—now under review amid supply strains.
Global Sourcing: The U.S. is also seeking eggs from Turkey and South Korea, but Brazil remains a top supplier despite Newcastle disease restrictions.
What’s Next?
FDA Decision: A ruling on broiler eggs could redefine food safety rules to ease shortages.
State Rollbacks: More states may pause cage-free mandates until supplies recover.
Long-Term Fixes: Vaccines and biosecurity upgrades aim to prevent future crises, but rebuilding flocks takes time.