A fresh outbreak of Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been reported across a few properties in Victoria, raising concerns among Australian consumers about the ongoing egg shortages. This incident, which occurred in February, is unrelated to the severe outbreak in 2024 that severely impacted the egg supply chain, leaving many supermarket shelves devoid of eggs.
While the initial outbreak has been contained, its repercussions continue to affect the egg industry, leading supermarkets to maintain purchasing limits on eggs in response to this latest situation. Rowan McMonnies, the managing director of Australian Eggs, reassured consumers that despite the ongoing shortages, the local egg supply has not collapsed. He noted that the industry is still providing around 18 million eggs per day and has made significant recovery strides since the 2024 crisis. However, this new outbreak in February has introduced additional challenges that may prolong the disruption to supply.
McMonnies is optimistic about the situation, suggesting that consumers might see an improvement in egg supply by the end of the year. As normal supply channels resume, it is anticipated that egg prices, which have surged by as much as 30% over the past six months, will stabilise. He explained that market prices are influenced by supply and demand dynamics and expects the current supply issues to alleviate as the year progresses.
Supermarkets like Coles have confirmed that they will uphold their egg purchase limits while monitoring the latest outbreak closely. A spokesperson for Coles indicated that they are committed to working alongside suppliers to ensure consistent egg availability and urged customers to purchase only what they need to support community availability.
Woolworths echoed a similar sentiment, with a representative noting that the 2024 outbreak decreased the number of laying hens in Australia, necessitating a longer recovery period. They are actively collaborating with suppliers to enhance the overall egg supply. Like Coles, Woolworths will continue to enforce existing purchase limits until the situation improves.
Despite the current challenges, both retailers are also stocking egg alternatives as they navigate the supply difficulties within the industry. Overall, the egg supply landscape remains complex, but there are signs of hope as the industry works to recover and meet consumer needs.