HealthlineBuying Eggs During the Bird Flu Outbreak? Here’s What You Should Know

The ongoing bird flu outbreak (H5N1 avian flu) has affected 107 flocks across 18 states in the past 30 days, leading to significant egg price increases and nationwide shortages. Although the outbreak remains primarily confined to animal populations, healthcare providers should note that human risk remains low, with 67 confirmed human cases and one death reported as of March 2024. Understanding proper egg handling and storage protocols is crucial for patient education and public health guidance.

Key Points:

• The outbreak has led to the slaughter of 145 million birds since 2022, with average egg prices reaching $4.15 per dozen. Federal officials project an additional 20% cost increase in 2025.
• Despite widespread animal infection, human transmission risk remains minimal. The virus has been detected in dairy cows but poses no risk in pasteurized milk products.
• FDA recommends exclusive purchase of refrigerated eggs, immediate home refrigeration, and consumption within three weeks of purchase.
• Egg dishes must reach 160°F during cooking, with reheated products reaching 165°F. Cooked eggs should not remain at room temperature beyond 2 hours.
• All eggs – whether organic, white, brown, or pasteurized – maintain equivalent safety standards when properly handled and cooked.

“The public can buy eggs with confidence. Eggs have a strong safety record. Eggs, whether white, brown, organic, or pasteurized, all are safe.”
— William Schaffner, MD, Professor of Preventive Medicine and Health Policy at Vanderbilt University

Food Safety Summaries