Egg prices hit record $4.95 per dozen in January

An average price for a dozen eggs in U.S. cities hit a record of $4.95 last month, according to data published Wednesday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The price tag for a dozen grade A, large eggs has surpassed the previous record set in January 2023 at $4.82. In December last year, the same carton of eggs would on average set consumers back $4.15. 

The increase in the price of eggs comes amid the outbreak of bird flu that has caused the death of more than 100 million egg-laying hens. Experts said in January the price of eggs could increase up to 20 percent in 2025. Whenever the virus is found on a bird farm, usually all of the birds have to be killed to contain the spread. 

Another factor upping the cost, such as in Oregon, Washington and California, is some states require eggs in stores to be cage-free. 

The egg prices increased 15.2 percent last month. In some places, including California, a carton could cost north of $9. 

“This was the largest increase in the eggs index since June 2015 and it accounted for about two thirds of the total monthly food at home increase,” the Bureau of Labor Statistics wrote in a Wednesday news release. 

Earlier this month, live bird markets in New York City and surrounding counties were closed after seven bird flu cases were detected.

“Safeguarding public health is all about being proactive, and New York state is continuing our coordinated effort to monitor for the avian influenza,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) said. 

Apart from eggs, the index for food increased 0.4 percent in January. It increased by 1.9 percent in January for meats, poultry and fish.