Amidst the largest bird flu outbreak in over a decade, Waffle House has implemented a temporary surcharge of 50 cents per egg, reflecting sharp cost increases due to egg shortages. This restaurant chain, based in Georgia and renowned for its affordable breakfast offerings, has had to adjust its pricing strategy in response to soaring egg prices. The outbreak has led to millions of chickens being culled monthly, intensifying the upward pressure on egg prices as the U.S. witnesses unprecedented price spikes.
Despite hopes of normalizing prices, the U.S. Department of Agriculture forecasts a further 20% hike in egg costs this year. The surge hits as Easter approaches, traditionally increasing egg demand. In December, the average cost of a dozen eggs soared to $4.15, approaching the pandemic-induced peak of $4.82. The Waffle House's standard two-egg breakfast, accompanied by toast and a side item, is now priced at $7.75, showcasing the direct impact of this spike.
Waffle House announced this week that the surcharge applies across all its menu offerings. According to the company, this decision is in direct response to current market conditions. However, Waffle House assures patrons that they are closely monitoring pricing trends and will remove or adjust the surcharge as the market stabilizes.
Beyond financial implications, the bird flu's health aspects cannot be overlooked. Human cases linked to the H5N1 strain have been recorded, with the first U.S. fatality reported in Louisiana last month. Since 2024, there have been 67 human infections from bird flu in the country, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This virus spreads notably among wild birds, domestic poultry, and even mammals like cows, enhancing the potential risks for human exposure.
Health experts continue to caution against complacency, advising those in contact with sick or deceased birds to prioritize safety protocols. Measures like wearing respiratory protection, eye gear, and gloves are critical when handling birds, given the potential transmission risks. While remaining relatively rare, the increased presence of H5N1 in diverse environments heightens the urgency for preventive steps.
This ongoing situation not only affects consumer pricing and the restaurant industry but also underscores a broader public health concern, prompting vigilance from both economic and healthcare angles.
