Egg Prices Soar to $8.58 per Dozen, Threatening Easter Traditions

The avian flu has decimated the U.S. egg supply, with over 52 million birds lost, reducing the national flock to a mere 280 million. This has driven wholesale egg prices to a record high of $8.58 per dozen. Retail prices have followed suit, averaging around $6 per dozen or more, leading to purchasing limits in stores. This egg shortage could significantly impact Easter celebrations, particularly the sales of egg dye kits. Companies like Natural Earth Paint, which typically sells 40,000 to 50,000 kits, have seen orders drop to just 7,000 this year. Color Kitchen, where Easter items account for 20% of their stock, anticipates lower sales due to the inflationary environment. Despite the challenges, some businesses like Paas expect to sell over 10 million kits, with 94% of surveyed consumers still planning to decorate eggs. Meanwhile, alternative egg products like craft eggs are gaining popularity, with Michaels reporting 43% of Easter sales from these items.

Source: www.cnbc.com