Egg Shortages & Soaring Produce Prices: What You Need to Know (April 2025)

Introduction

April 2025 is proving to be a challenging month for food affordability in the U.S. Egg prices have skyrocketed due to an H5N1 bird flu outbreak, while vegetable and herb costs are climbing due to trade tariffs. As supply chains struggle, consumers and businesses alike are feeling the strain. This article explores the reasons behind these increases, the impact on households, and how Backyard Raise & Grow can help you take control of your food supply.

Why Are Egg Prices So High?

The U.S. is facing an extreme egg shortage due to a severe outbreak of H5N1 bird flu, which has wiped out millions of egg-laying hens nationwide. As a result, prices have surged, with some areas reporting costs as high as $4.95 per dozen.

Major Impacts of the Egg Crisis:

Retail Limits: Stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe’s have set purchase limits on eggs.

Restaurant Surcharges: Chains like Waffle House have introduced per-egg surcharges.

Increased Imports: The U.S. is importing more eggs from Brazil, Turkey, and South Korea to stabilize supply.

Despite these measures, experts predict high prices will persist for months due to continued outbreaks and supply chain disruptions.

Sources:
Business Insider, The Guardian, New York Post

How Tariffs Are Raising Vegetable Prices

Fresh vegetables and herbs are becoming more expensive due to a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico—two of the U.S.'s largest produce suppliers.

Vegetables Seeing the Biggest Price Hikes:

Tomatoes 🍅

Bell Peppers 🌶

Leafy Greens 🥬

Market Impact:

Supermarkets are passing the costs onto consumers.

Farmers are shifting toward hardier, locally grown crops, reducing variety.

The U.S. government is considering more trade negotiations, but results may take months.

Sources:
Business Insider, MarketWatch

Impact on Consumers and Businesses

Consumers are spending significantly more on essential groceries, while businesses—especially restaurants—are struggling to keep menu prices affordable.

Who’s Affected the Most?

Low-income families, who spend a large portion of their budget on food.

Restaurants & bakeries, which rely heavily on eggs and fresh produce.

Grocery stores, which are facing supply chain issues.

How to Prepare for Food Price Increases

To protect your grocery budget, consider these strategies:

✅ Buy Local – Farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs can offer better prices.
✅ Grow Your Own – Starting a backyard farm can help you secure eggs, vegetables, and herbs.
✅ Preserve Food – Freezing and dehydrating seasonal produce can cut long-term costs.

The Role of Backyard Farming

At Backyard Raise & Grow, we provide tools to help families become more self-sufficient. Whether you want to raise chickens for fresh eggs or grow your own vegetables, we offer:

🐓 Chicken Coops & Nesting Boxes – Keep your hens safe and comfortable.
🌿 Herb & Vegetable Garden Kits – Grow fresh food at home.
🥚 Egg Maintenance Tools – Collect, clean, and store eggs properly.

Shop now at Backyard Raise & Grow and take control of your food security!

Final Thoughts

With egg shortages and vegetable price hikes continuing into 2025, self-sufficiency is more important than ever. Whether through backyard farming or strategic grocery shopping, taking proactive steps can help you weather this crisis.

Sources

Business Insider – Egg Shortages, The Guardian – Bird Flu Outbreak, New York Post – U.S. Egg Imports, MarketWatch – Vegetable Tariffs