The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced a $1 billion plan to assist farmers in combating a severe bird flu outbreak. This initiative includes $500 million for biosecurity measures, $100 million for vaccine research, and $400 million for financial relief programs for farmers. Over 35 million birds have been culled due to outbreaks in commercial flocks this year, causing egg prices to reach record highs.
The average cost of a dozen eggs in the US surged to $5 in January, marking a 53% increase from 2024, with potential for an additional 41% rise. The administration plans to offer free biosecurity consulting services to egg farms and cover up to 75% of costs to mitigate vulnerabilities. To address potential egg shortages, the government is considering temporary imports of eggs meeting US safety standards.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins stated that while immediate price reductions are unlikely, long-term solutions may lead to decreases by spring or summer. The soaring prices have led to unusual market behaviors, such as the sale of single eggs in New York City for those unable to afford a full dozen. In another incident, thieves in Pennsylvania stole over 100,000 eggs worth $40,000 from a delivery truck. — news fromBBC.com