Retailers across the country have started restricting egg sales as supply shortages worsen, leading to frustration among shoppers. Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts Farmers Market are among the grocery chains now enforcing limits on how many cartons customers can buy.
The shortages are linked to widespread poultry culling efforts in response to bird flu outbreaks. More than 148 million birds have been slaughtered since 2022 as part of a government response to the virus. Critics argue that these aggressive measures have done more harm than good, leaving store shelves empty and driving prices higher.
In an effort to keep stock available, Trader Joe’s has set a limit of one dozen eggs per customer per day. Whole Foods has imposed a three-carton cap, while Sprouts Farmers Market has restricted purchases to four dozen per visit. Some stores have even begun cutting eggs from delivery orders without notice due to unpredictable supply chains.
In Missouri and Illinois, at least 60 locations have implemented purchase limits. Reports from customers indicate that eggs are often unavailable, with some stores selling out within minutes of restocking. Videos online show long lines of shoppers grabbing cartons as soon as they become available.
The cost of eggs has soared, with the average price now reaching $3.82 per dozen—more than double what it was just a few years ago. Some states have seen prices exceed $9 per carton, forcing restaurants like Waffle House to add extra charges for egg-based menu items.
Federal agencies warn that prices could rise another 20% in the coming months. Despite growing concerns from consumers and businesses, officials continue to rely on mass poultry euthanizations as their main strategy to contain bird flu outbreaks.
