Consumers across Australia are observing empty shelves in supermarkets as the country grapples with ongoing egg shortages.

Major retail chains, including Woolworths and Coles, have implemented restrictions on egg purchases, although supply remains stable according to the retailers.

This situation stems from a confluence of factors, including the aftermath of an avian influenza (AI) outbreak, heightened seasonal demand, and shifts in egg farming practices.

The Egg Farmers of Australia (EFA) have identified past avian influenza incidents as a primary cause behind the scarcity.

The disease necessitated the culling of infected laying flocks across Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory, which deeply impacted production.

EFA Chief Executive Melinda Hashimoto stated that the majority of affected farms have been replenished with new hens, anticipating a gradual return to regular production levels within six months.

Another factor contributing to the shortage is the increased demand for eggs experienced during the festive season, summer holidays, and the back-to-school period, which has further strained existing supplies.

The industry also finds itself in a transitional phase as many farms shift from caged egg production to barn-laid or free-range systems, a move in line with forthcoming changes to Australia's poultry welfare standards set to phase out conventional caged eggs by 2036.

Victorian farmer Josh Murray of Josh's Rainbow Eggs confirms the ongoing challenges, noting that the bird flu outbreak and industry shifts have spread operations thinly, impacting supply chains.

While Woolworths maintains two-pack purchase limits in all states except Western Australia, ALDI manages with a slight reduction in supply without enforcing limits.

IGA stores, being independently owned, have varying egg availability dependent on their unique supplier arrangements.

Consumers are advised to consider seeking eggs at independent grocery stores or local markets, which may have access to different sources than larger chains.

Experts, including Murray, suggest checking local farmers' markets, grocers, or butchers as potential alternatives.

The EFA forecasts an increase in egg production throughout the year, with further improvements expected by 2025. Stakeholders within the industry express cautious optimism about restoring normalcy to egg supplies as recovery efforts continue.