You might want to start rationing your eggs — major grocery chains nationwide are capping how many cartons you can buy as supply struggles and prices skyrocket.
Here’s everything you need to know.
One Dozen Per Person, Please
If you’re heading to Trader Joe’s, don’t expect to stock up on eggs. The retailer confirmed to USA TODAY that customers are restricted to one dozen eggs daily.
“Due to ongoing issues with the supply of eggs, we are currently limiting egg purchases to one dozen per customer, per day, in all Trader Joe’s stores across the country,” a spokesperson told the outlet.
Other major retailers such as Costco, Walmart, Aldi, and Whole Foods have also imposed limits to prevent panic buying and keep shelves stocked.
Who’s Limiting What?
- Costco: Select locations are limiting customers to three packages of eggs per visit.
- Kroger: Certain stores are limiting shoppers to two dozen eggs per trip.
- Walmart: Restricting purchases of 60-count egg packages to two per transaction.
- Aldi: Implementing a two-dozen limit in certain locations.
- Whole Foods: Capping purchases at three cartons per customer in select stores.
What’s Behind the Shortage?
The ongoing avian flu outbreak is to blame for the egg crisis, as the virus has wiped out more than 20 million egg-laying chickens in the US in the last quarter, according to the USDA. As a result, the national average for a dozen eggs has jumped to about $4.95.
What Stores Are Doing About It
Beyond the purchase limits, retailers are scrambling to lock in more supply. But with feed prices up, supply chains stretched thin, and transportation costs climbing, restocking isn’t easy. Until things settle, you can either ration your eggs or accept that your omelet just became a special occasion brunch item.
