Cracked Crisis: U.S. Turns to Brazilian Egg Imports Amidst Price Surge

Amidst skyrocketing egg prices caused by bird flu, the U.S. has nearly doubled its import of Brazilian eggs previously used for pet food. This move aims to alleviate fresh egg shortages. Legislative and regulatory changes are under consideration, while concerns over food safety persist.

In response to the soaring egg prices driven by bird flu, the United States has significantly increased imports of Brazilian eggs once earmarked solely for pet food. The Trump administration is also evaluating the possibility of relaxing regulations on eggs from broiler chickens raised for meat to ease supply constraints on fresh eggs.

This shift could see these eggs being utilized in processed foods such as cake mixes, ice cream, or salad dressing, leaving more fresh eggs available for consumers. Some experts caution that deregulating these eggs could introduce food safety risks, such as the possibility of harmful bacteria contamination.

Egg shortages have contributed to food inflation as supply chains face disruption from trade disputes. Efforts to curb egg prices include bolstering imports from various countries and potentially changing rules to allow broiler chicken eggs for human consumption. Despite concerns, the pressure to address the egg supply and price crisis intensifies.

(With inputs from agencies.)