Central New York shoppers are seeing egg prices fluctuate due to the ongoing avian flu outbreak, which has disrupted production.
Amy Barkley, a livestock specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension, says prices range from $4.50 to $7.50, depending on each retailer’s strategy. Some stores raise egg prices to offset costs elsewhere, while others deliberately keep prices low, even at a loss.
"We're not seeing that in the store because stores are using eggs as a loss leader... They are losing money," Barkley said.
Regional factors also play a role. Prices vary by location due to transportation costs and local demand.
"You're gonna see some variation in price from store to store and from region to region," she added.
Experts say egg prices will remain volatile as long as avian flu affects supply. While consumers may find deals, wholesale costs are expected to stay high in the coming months.
