Egg, chicken prices increase as bird flu spreads
Prices for eggs and chicken rose in the last week and area grocery stores say they're prepared for a potential drop in supply.
Prices for eggs and chicken rose in the last week and area grocery stores say they're prepared for a potential drop in supply.
Prices for eggs and chicken rose in the last week and area grocery stores say they're prepared for a potential drop in supply.
Experts say bird flu poses a low risk to humans, but a big risk to the poultry industry.
Easter is right around the corner and an egg shortage is the last thing grocery stores need, but it could happen now that the avian flu was discovered on farms in 18 states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
One of those farms is in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, where .
Store managers have already had to make adjustments.
"We did shift some things around this weekend to some alternate sources and got plenty of egg supply in," said Lisa Grudzielanek, assistant director of operations at Metcalfe's Market in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. "That's going to be the name of the game as we go through this. One farm is affected and not another. You're kind of affected all your suppliers, to see what you can get from who."
The situation could change from week to week.
In 2015, the avian flu cost the federal government nearly $1 billion and caused egg prices to nearly double.
The USDA's national retail report shows average rose 83 cents compared to last week and rose as well.
Brandon Scholz, president of the Wisconsin Grocers Association, told sister station WISN it is a situation they are continually monitoring.
"Egg supply is going to be challenging for grocers and customers. We are hopeful egg producers can come back on line soon," Scholz said. "In the meantime, grocers are working to find eggs from as many sources as possible to keep eggs on the shelves."
Other stores said their stores have not experienced shortages in supply, but reiterated the avian flu is not a food safety issue.
"Consumers should have a high degree of confidence of product on store shelves. The product they’re purchasing is safe," said James Hyland, vice president of communications and public affairs with Roundy’s Division, The Kroger Co.
