Across grocery stores in the United States, egg shelves are sitting empty, leaving shoppers frustrated. A major outbreak of bird flu has wiped out millions of birds, causing a severe shortage of eggs and sending prices soaring. In January alone, nearly 19 million birds were lost to the disease, putting immense pressure on the egg supply chain.
Empty Shelves and Skyrocketing Prices
As a result, eggs, a common household staple, have become harder to find and much more expensive.
Experts predict a staggering 41% increase in egg prices this year, making them an increasingly costly item for families. In some areas, a dozen eggs now cost close to $10, compared to just $2 in Mexico.
This sharp rise has not only affected grocery shoppers but also restaurants and food businesses. Popular breakfast chains, known for their egg-based meals, have been forced to add extra charges. Customers at many restaurants now pay an additional $0.50 per egg, making breakfast meals more expensive.
To manage supply shortages, some stores have placed limits on the number of cartons each customer can buy.
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This has made it even more difficult for families to afford a basic ingredient used in many meals. With prices climbing and supply struggling to recover, consumers are looking for alternative ways to get their eggs—some of them crossing the border into Mexico.
Crossing the Border for Cheaper Eggs
The extreme rise in egg prices has driven many US shoppers southward in search of affordable alternatives. Every day, more than 200,000 vehicles cross the US-Mexico border. Many travelers buy groceries, household supplies, and medications in Mexico, where prices are significantly lower. Among these purchases, eggs have become an especially sought-after item.
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However, bringing fresh eggs into the United States is not allowed. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has strict regulations to prevent the spread of animal diseases, particularly highly contagious avian illnesses like bird flu and Newcastle disease. Since these viruses can be transmitted through eggs, raw poultry, and even used egg cartons, these products are banned from entering the country.
As a result, border officials have reported a massive increase in egg confiscations. Compared to last year, there has been a 48% rise in egg seizures nationwide. In San Diego alone, cases of eggs being intercepted at border crossings have jumped by an astonishing 158%. Most of these cases involve travelers who declare their eggs and surrender them without facing penalties. However, those who attempt to bring eggs in without declaring them risk fines of up to $300. Repeat offenders could face penalties reaching as high as $10,000.
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Once confiscated, these eggs are immediately destroyed in large incinerators to prevent any risk of disease transmission. US authorities continue to warn travelers about the strict agricultural rules in place, urging them to declare any fresh food items when crossing the border.
Government Actions and Imported Supply
As the crisis worsens, the US government has turned to other countries for help. To stabilize the supply, Turkey has agreed to export 15,000 tons of eggs to the US over the next few months. South Korea has also signed an agreement, though trade laws and food safety regulations make the process complex.
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Despite these efforts, egg prices remain high, and many consumers continue to look for alternatives. Some shoppers are relying on substitutes like powdered eggs or plant-based alternatives, while others are simply reducing their egg consumption. Meanwhile, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that no illegal shipments make their way into the country.
Officials have urged travelers to check the latest border regulations before attempting to bring any food products into the US. These rules can change frequently, especially during disease outbreaks, making it crucial for consumers to stay updated. The increase in interceptions at the border shows how deeply “eggflation” is affecting everyday shoppers, with many struggling to find an affordable solution.
