Locals are facing frustration as a common household staple becomes increasingly difficult to find on supermarket shelves.
In recent weeks, shoppers have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with some reporting extensive searches across multiple stores in Sydney, only to be greeted by empty shelves where this household staple should be.
The reason for the empty shelves is the significant egg shortage local supermarkets are currently facing, causing ripples of concern among consumers and retailers alike.
The shortage, which has been attributed to a combination of high demand and the aftermath of a devastating avian influenza outbreak, has led to some supermarkets imposing a two-carton limit on egg purchases.
This outbreak, which occurred six months ago, affected poultry farms in New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory, marking it as the largest in the nation’s history. The unfortunate necessity to cull thousands of affected farmed birds has had a lasting impact on egg availability.
The egg shortage is felt by Woolworths and Coles shoppers, per their social media posts.
‘I drove to different Woolworths stores then different Coles stores in Carlingford, West Ryde, Ermington, North Parramatta and no eggs, just a bunch of empty cartons,’ lamented one shopper online.
Another noted, ‘I checked the local Asian grocery store nearby that always has eggs and they were out too.’
While some have found solace in smaller, independent grocers, the shortage has undoubtedly caused inconvenience and concern.
‘I’ve been struggling to get eggs from Woolies and Coles for two weeks. Walked into Korean grocer and got 18 free-range eggs,’ shared one relieved customer.
Industry experts have confirmed that the egg shortage is a result of several factors. Melinda Hashimoto, the chief executive of Egg Farmers of Australia, pointed out that the festive season and school holidays typically see a spike in egg consumption, exacerbating the current shortage.
Meanwhile, Australian Eggs managing director Rowan McMonnies has assured the public that despite the challenges posed by the bird flu losses, national egg production remains robust, with ‘farmers producing 18 million eggs daily at the lowest point.’
‘The disruption means a few stores will run low but others will be stacked to the ceiling as there are still eggs about,’ McMonnies told Nine, offering a glimmer of hope to those facing empty shelves.
If you’ve spotted a supermarket that still has eggs in stock, we would love for you to share the location with the community. With shortages popping up in different areas, your tip could help someone in need find what they’re looking for.
Drop a comment with the store name, location, and any other helpful details. Let’s work together to help each other in the YourLifeChoices community have access to this essential.
Also read: With all this bird flu around, how safe are eggs, chicken or milk?
In our local Coles on Thursday there was only ONE make of eggs available that was available for purchase. Usually there is some shortage but a reasonable amount of choices.
The price will never come down when supply return to normal
Just another scare tactic from our Government !! How about they mention come get some eggs from farmers hand raised chocks we have plenty and I know around central west / slopes and plains . We have plenty