“Grocers across the United States are implementing mysterious restrictions on egg purchases as prices continue to rise due to the ongoing bird flu outbreak. Trader Joe’s, based in Monrovia, California, is one of the retailers limiting customers to one carton of eggs per day. This restriction is in place at all Trader Joe’s locations nationwide, with the company stating that it aims to ensure that all customers in need of eggs can purchase them during their visit.
Reports of similar limits on egg purchases have surfaced at various retailers, including Costco, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Aldi. While the exact timing of when these limits were put into effect is unclear, it is evident that some stores are imposing restrictions on the number of eggs customers can buy. For instance, Kroger has not implemented enterprise-wide limits but is asking customers at certain regional divisions and store banners to cap their egg purchases at two dozen per trip.
Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, has set limits on bulkier purchases, such as 60-count cartons, allowing customers to buy only two per purchase. The retail giant is working closely with suppliers to meet customer demand while striving to maintain low prices. On the other hand, Costco, Whole Foods, and Aldi have yet to comment on the situation, although Costco has confirmed limiting customers to three packages of eggs.
The impact of the avian flu outbreak is severe, with millions of chickens being slaughtered each month, resulting in a significant increase in egg prices. The average price per dozen eggs in the U.S. reached $4.15 in December, and the Agriculture Department forecasts a further 20% price surge this year. As Easter approaches, retailers may face additional challenges due to heightened demand.
In addition to grocery stores, some restaurants are also passing on the increased costs of eggs to consumers. Waffle House recently announced a 50-cent surcharge per egg on all its menus. The scarcity of eggs and rising prices are affecting both retail and dining establishments, highlighting the widespread impact of the bird flu outbreak on the egg industry.”
