A recent surge in Avian Influenza or bird flu cases at several locations in Victoria has caused concern among Australian consumers that the ongoing egg shortage might persist for an extended period.
The avian influenza outbreak in February is distinct from the 2024 incident that severely impacted the egg sector and resulted in empty shelves at supermarkets.
Although the initial outbreak was brought under control, its impacts are still reverberating throughout the nation. As such, supermarkets plan to maintain their purchasing restrictions in light of the recent resurgence.
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Rowan McMonnies, the managing director of Australian Eggs, informed 9News that despite the continuing shortages, it’s crucial to understand that the egg supply in Australia hasn’t completely broken down.
"The sector continues to provide 18 million eggs daily and is rebounding effectively from the events of 2024; however, sadly, another outbreak occurred in February, prolonging the disturbances in egg distribution," he stated.
The sector was heading towards balancing out the supply, but now additional efforts are required.
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McMonnies forecasted that, even with this obstacle, consumers ought to experience relief by year-end.
Returning to regular supplies might also assist in moderating the increase in egg prices, which have surged by as much as 30 percent in certain instances over the past six months.
“As with every sector, pricing is influenced by supply and demand dynamics, and it’s anticipated that these supply challenges will diminish throughout the year,” stated McMonnies.
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A representative from Coles told aynur1015.blogspot.com that restrictions on egg purchases will continue as the large supermarket chain keeps a close watch on the recent surge in cases in Victoria.
They stated, 'We will keep collaborating closely with all our suppliers to guarantee that eggs stay accessible to our customers.'
To ensure proper management of availability, we will keep the purchasing restrictions that were implemented following the initial outbreak in Victoria back in 2024.
We respectfully request our patrons to think of those around them and buy only what is necessary.
The representative also mentioned that Coles will keep stocking egg substitutes as they navigate the present issues within the egg sector.
VIEW: Coles Maintains Egg Buying Restrictions
A Woolworths representative verified to 9news today that they are adopting a comparable strategy.
"The 2024 outbreak led to a decrease in the population of laying hens across Australia, and this decline will likely take some additional time to recover from," they stated.
Meanwhile, the egg sector has been striving to increase its overall market supply.
Our egg stock continues to get better, and we're collaborating closely with our suppliers to obtain as many eggs as we can.
9News has learned that current purchasing restrictions will stay enforced at Woolworths for now.
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