Trader Joe’s and several other supermarkets across the United States are imposing limits on egg purchases due to a significant shortage caused by an ongoing outbreak of avian flu. Trader Joe’s has announced a restriction allowing customers to buy only one carton of eggs per day, a measure that is being applied to all its stores nationwide.
In a statement, the company mentioned that these limits are intended to help ensure that as many customers as possible can purchase eggs when they visit Trader Joe’s. Reports have emerged online showing signs in stores regarding these purchase limits, and other major chains like Costco, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Aldi are also facing similar restrictions.
The specifics of when these limits were enacted remain unclear, as not all stores are applying them consistently across the country. For instance, Kroger stated that while they do not have company-wide limits in place, some regional locations may ask customers to limit their egg purchases to two dozen per visit.
Walmart has also indicated that there are no national limits, except for larger cartons of 60 eggs, which are restricted to two per purchase. The retail giant, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, assured that they are working with suppliers to manage the limited supply while keeping prices as low as possible.
Costco has confirmed that it limits customers to three packs of eggs, typically sold in two or four dozen cartons. Meanwhile, some Target locations have displayed notices about supply difficulties without specifying any purchase limitations.
As a consequence of the avian flu, farmers are compelled to cull millions of chickens each month, resulting in price inflation for eggs. The average cost for a dozen eggs has surged to $4.15 as of December, doubling compared to summer 2023, with predictions from the Department of Agriculture suggesting that prices might rise another 20% this year, especially with Easter demand approaching.
Beyond grocery stores, this egg shortage is impacting restaurants as well. For instance, Waffle House recently announced a surcharge of 50 cents per egg on all its menu items to cope with rising costs.
