The escalating cost of eggs is placing significant strain on food banks across the United States, affecting their ability to provide essential nutrition to vulnerable populations. The recent outbreak of avian influenza has led to a reduction in egg supply, causing prices to soar. This situation is particularly challenging for organizations that rely heavily on affordable protein sources like eggs. Many food banks are now exploring alternative options such as canned meats and peanut butter to meet the growing demand. The issue highlights the broader problem of rising grocery costs and increasing food insecurity among low-income families.

In recent months, the availability of eggs has become increasingly scarce due to the widespread impact of avian influenza. This viral disease has decimated poultry flocks, leading to a sharp decline in egg production. For instance, Krystal Kabela, who manages a food bank in eastern Iowa, has noticed a dramatic decrease in egg donations over the past few years. Her organization, which serves approximately 1,000 households weekly, struggles to keep up with the high demand for eggs, especially on Fridays when fresh supplies arrive. Despite receiving 450 dozen eggs each week, they barely last a few days.

Eggs have long been a vital source of protein for many low-income Americans due to their affordability and versatility. However, the recent surge in prices has made it difficult for food banks to maintain consistent stock. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. egg prices rose by 15.2% from December to January, marking the largest monthly increase since June 2015. The average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs hit an all-time high of $4.95, contributing significantly to overall inflation and higher grocery bills for consumers.

Some food banks have had to adapt by suspending egg purchases altogether. City Harvest, a major provider in New York City, has paused buying eggs due to skyrocketing costs. Instead, they are focusing on more cost-effective protein alternatives like peanut butter and ground beef. Similarly, Rhode Island Community Food Bank has not purchased eggs since December, citing a staggering increase in prices. In June 2024, a case of several dozen eggs cost $16.50; by December, this figure had surged to $61.50 per case.

The egg shortage underscores the broader challenges faced by food banks in combating food insecurity. With about one in seven U.S. households experiencing food insecurity in 2023, the need for reliable food assistance remains critical. Social safety programs like SNAP often have strict eligibility criteria, leaving many low-income families dependent on local food banks for support. While some regions have not yet felt the full impact of rising egg prices, the overall trend is concerning. Food banks like the one managed by Kabela continue to witness growing reliance from their communities, making it harder to meet the escalating demand amidst rising costs.