Brian Moscogiuri, the vice president of Eggs Unlimited, has stated that egg prices are expected to remain high due to a decline in production caused by a bird flu outbreak. This increase in cost has led to a rise in incidents of eggs being smuggled across the southern border. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported a 29% uptick in shell eggs being confiscated at border entry points between October 2024 and February, compared to the same period the previous year, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The bird flu outbreak in the United States has led to the culling of millions of chickens, disrupting egg production and driving prices higher, as reported by media outlets. Joaquin Luken, executive director of the Smart Border Coalition, mentioned to NBC San Diego that it is common for people to cross the border for groceries or medication, and many might be unaware that raw eggs are prohibited items.
On Monday, Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations, noted an increase in eggs being intercepted at border entry points. Aki reminded the public that importing uncooked eggs from Mexico into the U.S. is prohibited and that failing to declare agricultural items may result in penalties of up to $10,000.
The surge in egg prices has been attributed to Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu. Amidst this egg shortage, Turkey has agreed to assist by supplying eggs to the U.S. Ibrahim Afyon, the chairman of the Egg Producers Central Union in Turkey, announced on Wednesday that 15,000 tonnes (33 million pounds) of eggs, equivalent to 700 containers, will be shipped to the U.S. This shipment is part of a preliminary agreement between Turkey and the U.S., which is set to continue through July 2025.
Afyon stated that the exports would be conducted through member companies with the necessary authorizations, and two firms would manage the coordination of the process.
