The global price of eggs has become a major concern for consumers following the impact of bird flu on the US egg industry. According to Eurostat, the average price of eggs in the EU rose by 6.7% in March 2025 compared to the same month in 2024. Countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary experienced significant annual inflation rates for eggs, with increases of 46.0%, 29.8%, and 26.1% respectively. On the other hand, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Greece saw decreases in egg prices, with drops ranging from 2.0% to 3.6%.
In 2025, egg prices have continued to rise, with a 3.4% increase in January and a 4.1% increase in February compared to the previous year. In contrast, 2024 saw negative rates of change in 10 out of 12 months when compared to 2023. Despite the increases seen in 2025, they have been smaller than those observed in 2022 and 2023, where double-digit increases were recorded every month between April 2022 and September 2023. The largest increase was 31.2% in February 2023 compared to the same month in 2022.
France was the leading producer of eggs in 2024, producing 942,000 tonnes, followed by Germany with 900,000 tonnes, Spain with 902,000 tonnes, and Italy with 763,000 tonnes. These countries play a significant role in the global egg market and have a direct impact on prices. Consumers around the world are closely monitoring egg prices, especially online, as they navigate the fluctuations in the market caused by factors like bird flu outbreaks and production levels in major producing countries.
The increases in egg prices have led to concerns among consumers about the affordability of this staple food item. Rising prices can have a significant impact on household budgets, especially for lower-income families who rely on eggs as a source of affordable protein. In countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary, where annual inflation rates for eggs were particularly high, consumers may be feeling the financial strain of increased prices.
As the global egg market continues to be influenced by various factors, including production levels, disease outbreaks, and consumer demand, it is important for policymakers and industry stakeholders to work together to ensure a stable and affordable supply of eggs. Measures to prevent disease outbreaks in poultry farms, support for egg producers, and efforts to increase productivity in the sector can all contribute to a more sustainable and resilient egg industry. Consumers will continue to watch egg prices closely and adjust their purchasing habits accordingly in response to market fluctuations and price changes.
