A growing number of grocery stores are rationing eggs as shortages continue, with major retailers imposing purchasing limits to manage supply disruptions. Customers at Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts Farmers Market are now restricted in how many cartons they can buy as stores struggle to restock shelves.
Egg supplies have plummeted due to large-scale poultry culling efforts in response to bird flu outbreaks. Since 2022, over 148 million birds have been slaughtered under federal containment policies, significantly reducing the number of available egg-laying hens. Retailers have implemented strict purchase limits in an attempt to control availability.
Trader Joe’s is allowing customers to buy only one dozen eggs per day, while Whole Foods has capped purchases at three cartons per visit. Sprouts Farmers Market has imposed a four-dozen limit, with some stores warning that additional restrictions may follow.
Missouri and Illinois have been hit particularly hard, with 60 stores now enforcing purchase caps. Reports from customers show that eggs are disappearing from shelves within minutes of restocking. Social media videos have captured crowds of shoppers grabbing eggs as soon as they become available.
Prices have surged, reaching an average of $3.82 per dozen. Some states have seen prices exceed $9 per carton, prompting restaurant chains like Waffle House to introduce surcharges to offset costs. The rising prices have made eggs one of the most expensive grocery items in the country.
Federal officials warn that prices could increase another 20% in the coming months. Despite concerns from consumers and businesses, the government continues its policy of mass poultry euthanizations to address avian flu outbreaks.
