The scale of impact caused by H5N1 and H5N2 outbreaks varies significantly by region, influenced by factors such as flock density, biosecurity measures, and proximity to migratory bird pathways. Below is an overview of the number of birds affected in recent outbreaks, categorized by state and country.
United States: State-by-State Impact
The United States has faced severe HPAI outbreaks, including H5N1 and H5N2, in recent years. States with large poultry populations have been particularly vulnerable:
Alabama and Oklahoma: Smaller outbreaks have impacted these states, though swift containment efforts have minimized broader disruptions.
Iowa: Over 1.2 million birds were culled in a recent H5N1 outbreak in 2023. Iowa, the largest egg-producing state, is often at the epicenter of supply disruptions.
Minnesota: Nearly 1 million birds were impacted by H5N1 in late 2023, primarily affecting commercial layer flocks.
California: With outbreaks detected in backyard flocks and smaller operations, California has faced challenges in containing the virus due to its diverse agricultural landscape.
South Dakota and Arkansas: Both states have reported outbreaks in 2023, with hundreds of thousands of birds culled as a precautionary measure.
In total, millions of birds have been affected across the U.S., with over 58 million birds culled during the 2022 H5N1 outbreak alone, highlighting the recurring and widespread nature of these viruses.
Implications for the Egg Supply Chain
The scale of these losses underscores the vulnerability of global poultry production to avian influenza. For egg suppliers and producers, understanding these regional impacts is critical for developing contingency plans and ensuring continuity in supply.
At Eggs Unlimited, we use real-time data and market insights to monitor outbreaks globally. This allows us to quickly adapt and maintain stable supplies for our customers, regardless of regional disruptions. By diversifying our sourcing strategies and collaborating with international partners, we minimize the risks posed by these large-scale outbreaks to ensure eggs are delivered anywhere, anytime, and always on time.
Global Impact: Country-by-Country Breakdown
5N1 has demonstrated its ability to spread globally, affecting major poultry-producing nations and disrupting international egg supplies.
United Kingdom: The UK has faced recurring H5N1 outbreaks, with millions of birds culled in 2022 and 2023, impacting its domestic poultry market.
China: As a hotspot for avian influenza outbreaks, China has seen millions of birds culled in various provinces, impacting both domestic consumption and exports.
European Union: Countries like France, the Netherlands, and Poland have been hit hard by H5N1, with tens of millions of birds impacted in 2022 and 2023. France alone reported over 20 million birds culled during a significant outbreak.
Brazil: As a leading poultry exporter, Brazil faced its first major H5N1 outbreak in 2023, prompting stringent control measures. While the number of birds culled remains smaller compared to other regions, the implications for global trade are profound.
Mexico: Frequent H5N1 outbreaks have led to significant disruptions in egg and poultry supplies, with millions of birds culled over the past two years.
Japan: In early 2023, Japan culled over 17 million birds in its worst outbreak on record, causing egg prices to skyrocket.
Why Eggs Unlimited?
As one of the largest egg producers in the U.S., Eggs Unlimited is well equipped to face any challenge. That includes increasing demand for eggs, issues with a specific farm, and challenges across the supply chain. As customers explore their egg options, our knowledge, resources, and experience can help them make smart, cost-effective choices.
At Eggs Unlimited, we partner with farmers and suppliers that care about their animals and the environment. We’re proud to work with farmers who follow robust environmental and ethical practices. Plus, with our global reach, we can take on any challenge for customers all around the world. We always have a way to meet – and exceed – our customers’ expectations.
Connect With Top Eggs Unlimited if you have shortage of eggs
Connect with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to learn more about your egg options. eusales@eggsunlimited.com