The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated an antitrust investigation into the sharp increase in egg prices, examining whether major producers have conspired to inflate prices or restrict supply.
Over the past year, consumers have experienced significant hikes in egg prices, with the average cost of a dozen Grade A large eggs reaching $4.95 in January 2025—a 139% increase from $2.07 in October 2023.
The ongoing outbreak of avian influenza, deemed the worst in U.S. history, has led to the culling of over 150 million birds, including egg-laying hens, since 2022. This has contributed to reduced egg supplies and escalating prices.
Emily Metz, the chief executive of the American Egg Board, commented saying, “Farmers know people are frustrated and they are frustrated too by the situation…They know they are not able to put on the volume of eggs that people want.”
In response to the crisis, the Department of Agriculture plans to invest up to $1 billion to address egg costs, including $500 million for enhanced biosecurity measures at egg-producing farms.
The DOJ’s investigation is in its early stages, focusing on communications between egg companies, customers, competitors, and price-tracking firms to determine if antitrust laws have been violated.
While supply chain disruptions and avian influenza have played a role, transparency in the marketplace remains essential. Ensuring fair competition is important, but government intervention must be balanced to avoid overreach that could further disrupt the agricultural industry.
