If you’ve recently strolled through the egg aisle at Wegmans and done a double take at the price tag, you’re not alone. The cost of eggs has skyrocketed, with some cartons reaching an astonishing $7 per dozen. But what’s driving this surge, and how is it affecting Worcester residents, businesses, and even local policy discussions?

What’s Causing the Price Hike?

According to Mr. Campbell, an economics expert and Doherty teacher, stated that the primary factor driving the surge in egg prices is the avian flu, which has led to the culling of millions of egg-laying chickens nationwide. With a dramatic drop in supply, prices have surged between 15% and 28%, significantly outpacing the U.S. inflation rate of around 3%.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that over 20 million egg-laying hens were lost to the virus last quarter, contributing to supply shortages. As a result, grocery stores in Massachusetts, including Market Basket, have begun limiting customers to two cartons per purchase to manage supply and demand.

Impact on Businesses and Consumers

Restaurants that rely heavily on eggs, such as Miss Worcester Diner and In A Pickle Restaurant in Waltham, are facing mounting costs. Some are paying as much as $100 for a case of 30 dozen eggs—double the usual price. While larger chains like Denny’s have introduced surcharges on egg-based meals, local businesses are hesitant to raise menu prices in hopes that the spike is temporary.

For small businesses, the price increase has led to thinner profit margins, forcing some to rethink their menu offerings or absorb the additional costs. J&M Diner’s Libby White, for instance, has been sourcing eggs from multiple distributors to keep supply steady without increasing prices for customers.

Will Prices Stabilize?

Experts believe that the trajectory of egg prices will follow the spread of bird flu. If the outbreak continues to escalate, consumers can expect further price increases. However, if cases decline, supply will begin to recover, stabilizing prices.

Beyond the immediate concerns, food inflation remains a challenge for both businesses and consumers. While some consumers may seek alternatives like plant-based egg substitutes, others are considering more drastic solutions — like raising their own chickens.

Raising Chickens: A Viable Solution?

With the cost of eggs rising, more people are looking into raising their own chickens. However, experts warn that backyard farming isn’t a simple fix. Raising chickens requires a substantial initial investment in coops, feed, and care. Additionally, urban areas like Worcester currently prohibit chicken ownership, although a recent petition seeks to change this.

While allowing residents to keep chickens could help alleviate some of the financial strain, city officials remain divided on the issue. Concerns over noise, sanitation, and potential rat infestations have stalled previous efforts to legalize backyard poultry.

Looking Ahead

As egg prices continue to fluctuate, the broader economic impact remains uncertain. Stock prices for major egg distributors like Cal-Maine Foods have surged, as investors anticipate higher profits from the price increases. Meanwhile, grocery stores and restaurants are bracing for further disruptions.

For Worcester residents, the best strategy might be to remain flexible—whether that means cutting back on egg consumption, exploring substitutes, or advocating for new policies that could ease the burden on consumers and businesses alike.