No Easter Peak for U.S. Eggs

FARGO - Mar 17/05 - SNS -- Egg prices in the United States are not expected to peak prior to Easter as is usually the case because of higher production this year in response to unusually strong regular markets in early 2004, argues Tim Petry, North Dakota State University Extension Service livestock marketing economist.

Consumer demand for eggs is normally 50% greater than normal in the week prior to Easter. However, last year the all-time high monthly retail average price for Grade A, large, white eggs occurred in March at U.S. $1.63 per dozen.

"A unique combination of short supply and strong demand factors, led by the increased popularity of low-carb diets, caused the high prices," Petry says.

Egg producers responded to higher prices by increasing production. By December, prices had fallen to about 98 cents per dozen. Egg prices vary by region in the country, with prices lower near areas of production and higher prices occurring in large, metropolitan areas. However, prices will average from 50 to 75 cents per dozen lower than last year.

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