Here’s the Reason Egg Prices Could Be Going Up in Arizona

Are we stuck in a time loop? It seems like it's déjà vu all over again - because the price of eggs and poultry is going up. Again.

This time (just like last time), experts point to another bird flu outbreak.

You're not alone if you've noticed your grocery bill creeping up. Egg prices are on the rise again, and since this is a diet staple for many and an essential ingredient in a host of other products, the price of other things will climb, too.

READ: Why Have Arizona Egg Prices Skyrocketed?

The Bird Flu Hits Arizona. Again.

Fox10 reports that bird flu has hit Arizona. The highly contagious virus has already wiped out millions of egg-laying hens across the country, drastically reducing the egg supply. It's simple economics: fewer hens laying eggs means a lower supply.

Supply can't keep up with demand, so the price of eggs is skyrocketing.

READ: Arizona at Risk: New Bird Flu Outbreak is Affecting New Species

Production Costs Causing Eggs Prices to Climb in Arizona

Another factor driving up prices is the increased cost of production. Farmers have been saddled with higher prices for feed, fuel, and labor, and that's adding to the ticket price for eggs.

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You can also thank California's Prop 12 and their new regulations for driving up the cost of production. How can a law in California affect Arizona farmers, you may ask?

Farmers in Arizona who want to sell products across state lines, like in California (the world's seventh-largest economy), have to follow the regulations set down in that state.

The proposition called for larger animal enclosures, which meant that Arizona farmers had to retrofit enclosures to allow more space for hens. Fewer hens per farm and higher maintenance costs results in higher egg and poultry prices.

READ: Retailers' Tricks To Get You To Spend More Money

Bottom Line: Higher Prices for Arizona Shoppers

So, what does this mean for your wallet? In November, the average price for a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $3.65. Arizona's egg prices have fluctuated recently, but you can expect to pay around $3.27 per dozen.

This is a significant drop from the peak price of $4.82 per dozen last year but still a big hit to the wallet.

Prices could skyrocket even more if the bird flu outbreak isn't contained. Some experts predict that prices could flirt with record highs again. You might want to print out a handy guide to egg substitutions in recipes.

Sources: azcentral.com | 12news.com | NerdWallet | ConsumerAffairs | NBC News | Newsweek | Fox10 | FSNS