Bird flu-induced shortages and skyrocketing egg prices coincide with large-scale theft in Pennsylvania, sparking investigations.
February 5, 2025: Authorities in Pennsylvania are investigating the theft of approximately 1 lakh eggs, valued at $40,000, from a distribution trailer in Greencastle. The theft occurred around 8:40 pm at Pete and Gerry’s Organics LLC, according to police reports shared by CNBC. The supplier has confirmed their cooperation with law enforcement but refrained from additional comments due to the ongoing investigation.
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This incident comes as the US faces a severe egg shortage, with prices soaring due to the spread of bird flu, which has devastated the poultry industry. Farmers have had to cull millions of chickens, leading to a wholesale price of $7.08 per dozen large eggs in the Midwest—seven times the price from two years ago, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
Egg producers like United Egg Producers report that 104 million egg-laying hens have been lost since 2022, with 29 million affected since October 2024 alone. Grocery stores have also imposed limits on egg purchases, with cage-free eggs in New York City priced as high as $11.99 per dozen.
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The demand for eggs has been further amplified by the popularity of high-protein diets and drugs like Ozempic, which are being widely used for weight loss. Amanda Oren of RELEX Solutions noted the heightened consumer demand for eggs as a protein source.
While no injuries or arrests have been reported in connection with the theft, the shortage has put additional strain on the food supply chain. The supplier, Pete and Gerry’s Organics LLC, stated, “We take this matter seriously and are committed to resolving it as quickly as possible.”
This national crisis has disrupted households, restaurants, and retailers alike, highlighting the fragility of the food supply system during such unprecedented events.
Tags:
EggShortage, BirdFluImpact, USFoodSupply, EggTheft, Inflation, FoodCrisis,
Last Updated on February 5, 2025 by Misha Bhatia
