Egg prices have reached an all-time high, and the situation is expected to worsen according to recent USDA estimates. The increase is attributed to a widespread bird flu outbreak that forced the culling of egg-laying birds, significantly reducing the supply of eggs. With supply dwindling, prices have soared, with the USDA now predicting a 41 percent hike by the end of the year, potentially doubling the earlier 20 percent warning.

The average cost for a dozen eggs has climbed to $4.95, a stark increase from $2.52 just a year ago, with some regions reporting prices as high as $10 per carton. In an effort to manage the rising costs, restaurants like Waffle House and Denny’s have introduced a surcharge on eggs, attempting to mitigate the economic impact on their menus.

In contrast, the price of chicken meat has remained stable since the broiler chicken population has not been significantly affected by the same bird flu outbreak. Amid these developments, political figures have been drawn into the issue. Donald Trump suggested that his Secretary of Agriculture would take action to address the soaring egg prices, although his response was met with criticism.

The controversy deepened following the accidental firing of several USDA employees who were involved in managing the bird flu crisis, a move seen by many as part of broader governmental restructuring efforts. Republican Representative Don Bacon commented on the situation, emphasizing that caution should be exercised in the decision-making process, hinting at the unintended consequences of hastily implemented cuts.