- Egg prices have dropped 33% from an all-time high of $8.17 to $5.51 per dozen, according to USDA data. However, prices remain 50% higher than last year.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins warns that prices may increase again as Easter nears, due to rising demand.
- The Justice Department is investigating whether egg producers manipulated supply to keep prices high.
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New data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that egg prices dropped sharply. Trading Economics reports that, as of Tuesday, March 11, the average cost of a dozen eggs is $5.51, down from an all-time high of $8.17 around the start of March.
This represents a nearly 33% decrease, offering some relief to consumers. However, prices remain about 50% higher compared to the same time in March 2024.
Easter demand may push prices higher
While the recent price drop is welcome news, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins warned that prices could rise again as Easter approaches. The holiday season traditionally sees increased demand for eggs, which can drive up costs.
“It’s likely prices will go back up,” Rollins said. “We’re moving into the highest price egg season even without avian flu, and that’s because Easter is right around the corner. But recently, we believe the market has reacted to our plan that we rolled out on Feb. 26.”
In response to the ongoing volatility in egg prices, the USDA announced a $1 billion plan aimed at stabilizing the market. The initiative includes easing regulatory burdens, exploring temporary egg imports and providing financial relief to farmers affected by bird flu outbreaks.
DOJ investigates possible price manipulation
The Department of Justice launched an investigation into whether major egg producers have artificially inflated prices. According to The Wall Street Journal, antitrust officials are examining whether companies intentionally limited supply to drive prices higher.
Farm Action, an advocacy group, supports the DOJ’s inquiry.
“While avian flu is real, it is no excuse for the price being charged at the grocery store for one of the country’s staples,” the group said in a statement. “Our analysis suggests likely antitrust abuses by dominant egg producers, and the DOJ has the authority to get to the bottom of this.”
However, the American Egg Board, which represents egg producers nationwide, defended the industry.
“Eggs are subject to the economic laws of supply and demand,” CEO Emily Metz said in a statement rejecting claims of price manipulation. “The tight egg supply caused by avian influenza, coupled with 23 consecutive months of high sales volume, has created a perfect storm in egg markets.”
Egg supply remains tight in some areas
Despite the recent price drop, some grocery stores are still limiting purchases, and egg shortages persist in certain regions.
With Easter fast approaching, consumers may continue to see fluctuating prices until supply stabilizes. Rollins says the Trump administration has a five-point plan to bring down prices, but it will take time to see full results.
