NEW YORK — Due to a significant outbreak of bird flu, the popular Waffle House chain has implemented a 50-cent surcharge on each egg served in its restaurants.
The 24-hour diner chain stated that the ongoing egg shortage has resulted in substantial increases in its operational costs.
The current bird flu situation has forced the culling of millions of chickens each month, causing a sharp rise in egg prices across the United States—more than double what they were in the summer of 2023.
With Easter just around the corner, it appears that prices may not stabilize soon.
In December, the average price for a dozen eggs reached $4.15 nationwide, which, while lower than the all-time high of $4.82 two years prior, still indicates a troubling trend.
The Department of Agriculture forecasts a further increase of about 20% in egg prices throughout this year.
The newly introduced surcharge at Waffle House began this week and applies to all menu items.
For example, a two-egg breakfast, accompanied by toast and a side, was priced at $7.75 as of Tuesday.
The company expressed hope that these price increases will be temporary but acknowledged uncertainty regarding how long the egg shortage might persist.
Waffle House plans to keep a close eye on egg market conditions and will likely adjust or eliminate the surcharge as circumstances permit.
Additionally, the spread of H5N1 bird flu has raised concerns as the first death of a human in the U.S. linked to the virus was reported in Louisiana last month.
As of now, there have been 67 confirmed human infections in the U.S. in 2024, according to authorities.
The virus has been affecting not only poultry and wild birds but also other animals like cows, raising the risk of human exposure, although such cases remain rare.
Health experts recommend that anyone in contact with sick or deceased birds should take precautions, including using gloves and wearing protective gear for respiratory health.
Waffle House, which is headquartered in Georgia, operates over 1,900 locations across 25 states.
In a related incident, Pete & Gerry’s Organics faced a challenging situation when approximately 100,000 eggs were reportedly stolen from the distribution trailer in Antrim Township, Pennsylvania.
The theft, which law enforcement has stated is under investigation, is valued at around $40,000.
