As egg prices in the United States reach record highs, a notable increase in the number of eggs being seized at the U.S.-Mexico border has been observed. Authorities attribute this rise to a combination of soaring egg costs and a significant bird flu outbreak, which has led to a depletion of chicken populations across the country.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), there was a staggering 29% increase in the confiscation of eggs at ports of entry from October 2024 to February 2025 compared to the same timeframe the previous year. The bird flu crisis has severely impacted the supply chain, causing eggs to vanish from grocery store shelves, prompting consumers to seek alternatives across the border.
Joaquin Luken, executive director of the Smart Border Coalition, noted that many travelers may not be aware that raw eggs are prohibited from being brought into the U.S. from Mexico. He emphasized the importance of declaring any agricultural items at the border. While travelers who admit to having eggs may have them confiscated, they are often issued a warning rather than facing fines.
The CBP has reiterated that the importation of raw eggs, along with raw chicken and live birds, is generally prohibited due to concerns over diseases like Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Virulent Newcastle disease. Travelers are advised to declare all agricultural products to CBP officers to avoid potential civil penalties, which can reach up to $1,000 for first-time offenders.
The average price for a dozen eggs in the U.S. has surged to $4.95, a record high, largely due to the avian flu outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of over 21 million chickens, with 13 million fatalities occurring in December alone. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports an 8% decline in the population of conventionally caged chickens.
With the current avian flu crisis affecting poultry farms nationwide, the demand for eggs has surged, leading many consumers to seek out eggs from Mexico. However, the CBP has warned that while it may be common for individuals to cross the border for groceries or medications, they should be cautious about bringing back prohibited items like eggs, which could lead to confiscation and fines.
As the situation unfolds, consumers and authorities alike are grappling with the implications of rising egg prices and the ongoing challenges posed by the bird flu outbreak. The intersection of agricultural health and consumer behavior at the border highlights the complex dynamics of food supply and demand in a time of crisis.