Egg Prices and Avian Flu Outbreak in the U.S. and Canada

SOURCE www.npr.org
Due to the avian flu outbreak in the U.S., egg prices have soared to record highs while Canada continues to have plentiful and affordable eggs. Differences in farm size, agricultural practices, and supply management systems contribute to the contrasting situations in the two countries.

Key Points

  • Avian flu outbreak in the U.S. leads to record-high egg prices.
  • Canada's smaller egg farms and agricultural practices help maintain egg supply.
  • Differences in farm sizes and agricultural systems contribute to contrasting egg situations.
  • U.S. considering temporarily increasing egg imports to address high prices.

Pros

  • Canada has plentiful and affordable eggs despite the avian flu outbreak.
  • Small egg farms in Canada help limit the impact of flu outbreaks.
  • Canada's supply management system supports small farmers.
  • Potential solution of temporarily increasing egg imports to meet demand in the U.S.

Cons

  • U.S. egg prices have soared due to avian flu and efforts to contain it.
  • Large-scale egg farms in the U.S. are more susceptible to widespread flu outbreaks.
  • Trade war tensions between the U.S. and Canada impact farm product imports.