Eggs in a basket. Andy Andrews/The Image Bank RF/Getty Images
Authorities are investigating the theft of approximately 100,000 eggs from the back of a distribution trailer in central Pennsylvania. The eggs, valued at an estimated $40,000, were stolen from Pete & Gerry’s Organics, an egg producer in Greencastle, on Saturday night, according to a report from the Pennsylvania State Police. This theft comes amid a nationwide egg shortage, exacerbated by an avian flu outbreak, which has driven prices to near-record highs.
In a statement to CNN on Tuesday, Pete & Gerry’s Organics acknowledged the theft, saying, “Pete & Gerry’s is aware of a recent incident in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and we are actively working with local law enforcement to investigate.” The company is cooperating with authorities as they work to determine the details of the theft.
The company’s statement continued, “We take this matter seriously and are committed to resolving it as quickly as possible. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment any further on this matter.” Pete & Gerry’s has made it clear that they are prioritizing the resolution of the theft while respecting the investigation process.
The egg industry has been grappling with significant challenges in recent months, largely due to the resurgence of an avian flu outbreak. The virus has led to the deaths of millions of egg-laying hens, with nearly half of all bird fatalities in 2024 occurring in November and December alone, according to the USDA. This has contributed to the ongoing egg shortage and the sharp rise in egg prices.
The national average price of eggs became a significant issue leading up to the U.S. presidential election in November, as the soaring prices and limited supply garnered widespread attention. Consumers and restaurants alike continue to feel the impact of higher egg prices, which have been compounded by the ongoing supply shortage. The cost of eggs remains a point of concern for many, as they struggle to adjust to both the rising prices and the reduced availability of this grocery staple.
The average price of a dozen large, grade-A eggs rose to $4.15 in December, up from $3.65 in November, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, egg prices saw a significant year-over-year increase of more than 36% in December, as reported by the Consumer Price Index. These rising costs have added to the financial strain on consumers, further exacerbated by the ongoing supply challenges within the egg industry.
Waffle House, the popular diner chain across the South, has introduced a 50-cent surcharge per egg due to the “nationwide rise in cost of eggs” and the ongoing egg shortage, according to signs posted at its restaurants. The company explained the surcharge in a statement to CNN, noting that the additional charge will be adjusted or removed depending on future market conditions. This move reflects the broader impact of rising egg prices on businesses and consumers alike.
