January saw a record high average price of $4.95 for a dozen Grade A eggs, more than double the August 2023 low, primarily due to a large bird flu outbreak resulting in the culling of nearly 158 million birds. This surge accounts for two-thirds of the increase in overall food costs and has led to shortages in many grocery stores, with some locations experiencing significantly higher prices and limited availability. The USDA predicts a 20% increase in egg prices this year, and relief is not anticipated soon, exacerbated by increased holiday demand and ongoing production challenges. Higher feed, fuel, and labor costs, along with increased biosecurity measures and growing demand, further contribute to the price increases.
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Amidst a national egg shortage and rising prices, Waffle House implemented a 50-cent per-egg surcharge, prompting a response from competitor Cracker Barrel. Cracker Barrel criticized the surcharge as inhospitable, highlighting its own commitment to affordable breakfast options. To capitalize on the situation, Cracker Barrel is offering double rewards points on egg orders. Waffle House attributed the surcharge to the increased cost of eggs and the ongoing shortage, though the measure is intended to be temporary.
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Due to a nationwide egg shortage caused by avian flu, Waffle House has implemented a temporary 50-cent surcharge per egg. This measure is a direct response to dramatically increased egg costs, impacting both restaurants and consumers. The chain, which uses an estimated 272 million eggs annually, will continuously monitor prices and adjust the surcharge accordingly. With the avian flu outbreak worsening and egg prices projected to rise 20% this year, the surcharge is expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future.
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John Q. Hosedrinker