We are in the midst of a current resurgence of High Pathogenic Avian Flu cases, and one of the latest outbreaks is taking out more than a million table egg layers in Iowa.
However, to put it into perspective, USDA data shows the impacts of HPAI this year are much less severe than last. 4.6 million birds have been culled this year, and in 2022, that number was almost 58 million. This has kept prices of poultry and eggs way down from what we saw last year, with eggs averaging $2 less a dozen than those record highs.
Experts are worried that the virus’ appearance this fall shows it learned how to survive the summer.
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Approximately 42,000 birds were affected in the outbreak, officials said.
AFBF Economist Bearnt Nelson joins us with insights into current turkey flock sizes, HPAI concerns, and production impacts on holiday demand.
Farmers may benefit from higher turkey prices this holiday season, but risks from HPAI and limited poult placements could further strain the supply.
Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.
Wholesale egg prices decreased by 64% from their peak in late 2024, while retail prices have dropped by 27%, according to a recent USDA update.
