Unknown thieves have stolen over 1 lakh eggs worth approximately $40,000 from a department store in Pennsylvania, as egg prices continue to soar due to a bird flu epidemic.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the theft occurred on February 1 at 8:40 PM, targeting the back of a lorry at Pete & Gerry’s Organics in Greencastle. Authorities have launched an investigation but have yet to make any arrests or release further details regarding the incident.
In a statement to USA Today, Pete & Gerry’s Organics assured customers of their commitment to addressing the situation promptly but declined to provide additional comments. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Chambersburg bureau at 717-264-5161.
The theft comes at a time when egg prices have been on the rise due to a nationwide bird flu outbreak. The epidemic, which began in 2022, has significantly impacted poultry farms, leading to supply shortages.
According to BBC News, egg prices in the US have surged by over 65% in the past year, with the agriculture department predicting a further 20% increase in 2025. In December 2023, the average price for a carton of eggs was $2.51, which climbed to $4.15 by December 2024.
The rising costs have affected both consumers and businesses. National restaurant chain Waffle House recently introduced a $0.50 surcharge per egg for customers, calling it a “temporary targeted surcharge” due to the unprecedented spike in prices.
The US Department of Agriculture has reported that the ongoing bird flu outbreak has affected not only birds but also cattle and some mammal species. However, human infections remain extremely rare. The disease’s spread has resulted in widespread supply chain disruptions, leading to empty shelves in some stores.
As investigations into the egg heist continue, authorities warn that food-related thefts may rise amid ongoing economic pressures caused by the avian influenza crisis.
