Park Ridge, IL — The egg supply has completely recovered from the impact it suffered due to the avian influenza (AI) outbreak in 2015, surprising industry analysts. Initial forecasts had predicted an 18-month timeline for flocks and supply to return to pre-AI levels, yet producers have achieved this goal in one year’s time. Prices for both shell eggs and egg ingredients reflect this abundant supply. In fact according to industry analyst, Rick Brown, senior vice president, Urner Barry, whole egg prices are at a 10-year low.
New biosecurity safeguards and measures will help ensure the protection of a healthy and viable egg industry moving forward. Affected farms worked diligently to meet the stringent cleaning and disinfection regulations defined by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service before repopulating.
“The abundant supply of eggs means that Americans’ love affair with breakfast sandwiches and breakfast in general can continue,” said Anne L. Alonzo, President and CEO of the American Egg Board. “And an ample egg supply is assured for fall specials, limited time offers or new ideas for portable, handheld items, which have never been more popular.”
One study recently found that 28 percent of consumers eat breakfast away from home, compared to 11 percent 10 years ago.1 NPD Group reports that breakfast visits at quick service restaurants (QSRs) grew five percent in the year ending in February with breakfast sandwiches showing particular growth during that period.2 “Hearty” breakfast sandwiches introduced by leading QSRs appeal to the population segment most likely to purchase breakfast from a restaurant (82 percent), U.S. men ages 18-34.3
The American Egg Board offers foodservice outlets fresh menu ideas including a video recipe series recently produced in collaboration with the Culinary Institute of America, found here.
About the American Egg Board (AEB)
Through AEB, U.S. egg producers come together, in accordance with statutory authority, to establish, finance and execute coordinated programs, on research, education and promotion—all geared to drive demand for eggs and egg products. AEB and all program activities are funded by U.S. egg producers, subject to USDA approval. Visit www.aeb.org for more information.
2 http://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/news/qsrs-see-bump-breakfast
3 http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/90911-how-breakfast-becomes-an-all-day-occasion
Source: American Egg Board (AEB)
