SCHOENEICHE, Germany — The U.S. government is actively pursuing egg exports from European countries to alleviate a significant shortage that has driven grocery store egg prices to unprecedented levels.
Among the countries under consideration are Germany, Italy, Poland, and Sweden, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture addresses the shortfall affected by a bird flu outbreak, as reported by European agricultural groups.
However, supplying eggs to the U.S. poses several challenges for international producers. European nations are grappling with their own avian flu outbreaks and increased domestic demand as Easter approaches, leading to limited surplus availability.
Another significant hurdle is the differing safety standards between the U.S. and the European Union regarding salmonella prevention. The U.S. mandates that fresh eggs be sanitized and refrigerated before reaching consumers, while EU regulations allow Grade A eggs to be sold unwashed and without extended chilling.
These stark contrasts in egg handling practices complicate the potential for U.S. imports. For instance, it is common in Europe for consumers to purchase eggs that retain feathers and even remnants of chicken feces.
Local farmer David Karlsch explained how his family-owned poultry farm collects eggs from nests and sells them directly on-site or via a refrigerated vending machine, in response to high Easter demand.
Poland, a major egg exporter, has received inquiries from the U.S. regarding egg availability. However, the issue of how eggs are cleaned—the U.S. favors washed eggs, while most EU countries do not—remains a critical point of discussion.
Polish officials are assessing whether they can meet U.S. food safety regulations amid ongoing bird flu concerns. Most EU member countries adhere to regulations stating that table eggs must not be washed due to fears that cleaning removes the protective coating of the eggshell.
Despite some flexibility for older packing methods, Danish Egg Association officials note that customs regarding egg washing vary across Europe, with some regions, including Sweden, following different practices. However, Sweden and Norway have already communicated their lack of surplus eggs for export.
Currently, any increase in U.S. egg imports from Europe is expected to be in processed forms or products that can be shipped in frozen or dried states. Poland’s trade association indicated that while they could offer limited quantities of whole eggs, they could significantly supply processed egg products if certified by the U.S.
Processed eggs are typically pasteurized for food safety and used in various food manufacturing sectors, including restaurants, hospitals, and nursing homes. Common commercial products made with processed eggs include baked goods, pasta, and sauces.
The U.S. is also exploring emergency egg supplies from Italy’s Veneto region, although domestic production is only sufficient to meet national demand. Like many other producers, Italian farmers are constrained due to bird flu’s toll on their industry.
Germany’s poultry sector is similarly limited, producing only 73% of its egg consumption needs, sourcing the remainder from other countries to maintain supply.
To further address the shortage, the U.S. government has reached out to several nations, including Austria, Norway, Spain, and Denmark. While some agreements have been secured with Turkey and South Korea, details remain sparse.
Efforts to increase imports of liquid, frozen, and dried eggs aim to alleviate shell egg demand, especially following significant declines in domestic production.
As talks continue, indications suggest a modest recovery in the U.S. market, with wholesale egg prices falling substantially from their peak. Consumers are beginning to notice these price reductions, although seasonal demand could drive prices up again shortly.
Despite political tensions, officials in Europe express willingness to export eggs, emphasizing that satisfying consumer demand remains a priority. Agricultural leaders assert that business decisions will ultimately dictate the outcome of potential egg exports, highlighting the need to support local demand while navigating trade complexities.
