Demand, prices for local eggs skyrocket amid nationwide avian flu outbreak

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The hunt for eggs continues with an ongoing shortage in Hawaii caused by a nationwide bird flu outbreak.

With demand comes price increases. A new report from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture says the price for locally produced eggs jumped 28%, from $6.91 in 2021 to $8.87 in 2024.

Long lines formed outside Eggs Hawaii on Waiakamilo Road Wednesday morning with customers waiting patiently to buy local eggs.

Moanalua residents Bill and Lisa Sandusky said they went to Costco, Foodland, and Times in their search for eggs.

“Everywhere, name it. I can’t find anything,” said Lisa Sandusky.

Salt Lake resident Erika Guillory is a caterer, and says the egg shortage has impacted her income.

“I was looking for eggs, and I couldn’t make a cake for one of the events that I had this weekend,” she said. “I’m not making as much money with the cakes that I normally make, but it’s hard to make a cake without eggs.”

Eggs Hawaii has a one-tray limit.

Meanwhile, the state says the price for imported mainland eggs increased by nearly 52% from $5.50 to $8.35.

“The increase in local production of eggs has been closing the price gap with imported mainland eggs,” said Hawaii Board of Agriculture chair Sharon Hurd.

“The avian influenza outbreak on the mainland is another example of why food security in Hawaii is so important. Supporting local farmers and ranchers helps to ensure our food supply,” Hurd said.

While avian flu has been confirmed in Hawaii, officials say no Hawaii egg production facilities have been impacted.

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