Supermarkets across Australia are grappling with a significant egg shortage, triggered by soaring demand and the lingering effects of a devastating avian influenza outbreak. As a result, some retailers have reintroduced purchasing limits to manage supply.
Six months ago, a major outbreak of bird flu swept through poultry farms in New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory, marking the largest such crisis in the country’s history. In an effort to contain the virus, thousands of birds were culled, severely impacting egg production.
At the time, supermarkets in several states imposed a two-carton-per-customer limit to stabilise supply. However, in recent weeks, shoppers have noticed the return of empty shelves, prompting renewed frustration.
Disappointed customers have taken to social media to share their struggles in finding eggs. One shopper described visiting multiple Woolworths and Coles locations across Sydney—including Carlingford, West Ryde, Ermington, and North Parramatta—only to be met with bare shelves. Another person noted that even their local Asian grocer, which usually has a reliable stock, was completely sold out.
“I haven’t been able to get eggs from Woolies or Coles for two weeks,” another frustrated customer posted online. “I finally found some at a Korean grocer—18 free-range eggs, no problem.”
Industry experts have confirmed that the shortage is being driven by a combination of factors: seasonal demand, the ongoing impact of bird flu, and industry regulations. Melinda Hashimoto, Chief Executive of Egg Farmers of Australia, explained that the festive period and school holidays have significantly increased consumer demand for eggs.
Despite the supply challenges, Australian Eggs Managing Director Rowan McMonnies reassured consumers that national production remains strong. “Even at the lowest point, Australian egg farmers are still producing 18 million eggs a day,” he said.
However, distribution remains inconsistent. “Some stores will temporarily run low, while others will have an abundance of stock,” McMonnies added, emphasising that eggs are still available—it’s just a matter of where and when they reach shelves.
As the industry works to stabilise supply, shoppers are encouraged to check different retailers and remain patient as farmers and suppliers navigate this challenging period.
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