MONROE, La. (KNOE) – Egg prices are on the rise, leaving consumers feeling the financial strain. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average price for a dozen eggs is currently $4.95, a sharp increase that is putting pressure on household food budgets.
“They are too high, extremely high. I can’t afford to buy them right now,” said one local shopper. Another resident humorously noted, “My thought on egg prices to me is that they suck, I’m about to raise chickens.”
The surge in egg prices follows a 13 percent increase in January, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicting a staggering 41 percent during the year. This is due to an ongoing shortage caused by the spread of bird flu, which has affected poultry supplies nationwide.
In response, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a five-part plan to combat the outbreak and stabilize prices.
“Before we start sticking our chickens, we need to ensure when putting it into the food supply that we know exactly what we are doing,” said Rollins. She also cautioned that it will take some time for prices to normalize, adding, “It’s going to take a little while to get through the next month or two, but hopefully by summer.”
The impact of rising egg prices extends beyond households. Chain restaurants like Denny’s and Waffle House have already implemented an egg surcharge to offset the increased costs.
In Monroe, local nutritionist Andi Holyfield offered advice on how residents can save.
“Eggs are essential, and if we can promote local, maybe get some local eggs that are pasture-raised,” said Holyfield. She also suggested getting creative with Easter baskets this year, saying, “Make non-food-related Easter baskets with super awesome things, like makeup and hair products.”
With no immediate end in sight, egg prices are expected to remain high through spring.
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