The cost of a dozen large, white-shell eggs averages more than $8 across the country due to high prices that have persisted since the outbreak of High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). To control the spread of the disease, poultry producers reduced the number of laying hens, particularly in commercial layer houses, which are most affected by HPAI. Since the beginning of the year, over 20 million egg-laying hens have been lost, leading to a reduced egg supply and rising prices.

While broiler chickens, raised for meat, also lay eggs, those eggs are not typically used for table eggs. Some have questioned whether surplus broiler eggs could be used to ease the egg shortage. Agricultural economist Dennis Brothers from Auburn University explained that even though surplus broiler eggs were once used in the edible egg products market, a 2009 law now prevents them from being part of the table egg supply chain.

Currently, surplus broiler eggs are either disposed of or used in animal feed. The National Chicken Council estimates nearly 400 million surplus broiler eggs are available annually, but adding these eggs would only increase table egg supply by about 0.4% per month, which would have little impact on prices. While it may not significantly affect prices, allowing broiler eggs into the supply chain could benefit producers by providing a market for these surplus eggs.