Trump Makes Major Move To Lower Egg Prices

What’s actually causing this?

The Department of Justice (DOJ), under President Donald Trump, has launched an investigation into the sharp rise in egg prices, questioning whether large producers are engaged in price-fixing or deliberately restricting supply. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that egg prices spiked by 15.2% from December 2023 to January 2024, and an astounding 53% from January 2024 to January 2025. In January, the cost of a dozen Grade A large eggs hit $4.95, a dramatic 139% increase since October 2023.

To address the price surge, the DOJ sent letters to several egg companies, instructing them to preserve all documents related to pricing discussions with competitors and customers, as well as any communications regarding egg production and avian flu. While it is unclear whether the investigation will be pursued under criminal or civil law, authorities are examining whether anti-competitive practices are contributing to the price hikes.

The investigation has sparked concerns that some egg producers may be exploiting the disruption in the supply chain caused by the bird flu crisis. Experts warn that during supply disruptions, some companies may attempt to capitalize on the situation, which could violate antitrust laws.

Many attribute the soaring egg prices to the worst avian influenza outbreak in U.S. history, which has led the USDA to cull over 150 million poultry. However, egg producers are also facing challenges in rebuilding their flocks, as even young birds have been affected by the flu. This has caused significant delays in recovery, exacerbating the egg shortage and pushing prices higher.

For many Republicans, this price increase is a point of frustration, as it has contributed to broader food inflation, hindering President Trump’s efforts to reduce overall inflation, which was at 3% in January. The egg crisis has put additional pressure on American families, and it is one of the key drivers of food inflation.

In response to the crisis, the USDA has pledged up to $1 billion to address the high cost of eggs, including $500 million for biosecurity measures on egg farms. While companies like Cal-Maine Foods, the largest U.S. egg producer, have seen record profits from the price increases, critics, including groups like Farm Action, are calling for an investigation into potential price manipulation. They argue that producers may be limiting supply to maintain high prices.

As the DOJ investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether these practices will be uncovered or if egg prices will stabilize anytime soon. However, this ongoing situation highlights the need for greater transparency and fairness in the egg industry, as American families continue to feel the financial impact at the grocery store.