Overview
- Shoppers are paying far less than last year, with the average retail price at $2.50 per dozen in February 2026 versus the $6.23 record in March 2025.
- U.S. flocks have largely recovered, reaching about 315.8 million laying hens as of March 1 after producers ramped up chick hatching to rebuild supply.
- Bird flu has not gone away, with infections in commercial flocks rising recently and 5.22 million birds culled in the latest month reported.
- Temporary steps in 2025 expanded supply, including nearly 1 billion imported eggs, fewer exports, and a 657% jump in shell egg imports compared with 2024.
- Many producers are underwater or near break-even, with basic production around $1.05 per dozen and late‑March wholesale prices near $1.17, and they face possible feed cost spikes tied to the Iran war.