Egg prices are on the rise, and now, even thieves are taking notice. In Pennsylvania, a staggering 100,000 eggs vanished from a supplier’s trailer, leaving authorities scrambling for answers. Read on to uncover the details of this egg-stravagant heist, what it means for consumers, and how rising costs may be fueling unusual crimes like this one.
The Great Egg Heist: Pennsylvania Authorities Investigate Massive Egg Heist
Authorities are investigating the theft of approximately 100,000 eggs from a distribution trailer in central Pennsylvania. The stolen eggs, valued at an estimated $40,000, belonged to Pete & Gerry’s Organics and were taken from the company’s facility in Greencastle on Saturday night, February 1st, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
“Pete & Gerry’s is aware of a recent incident in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and we are actively working with local law enforcement to investigate,” the company said in a statement to CNN on February 4th. “We take this matter seriously and are committed to resolving it as quickly as possible. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment any further on this matter.”
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact motive behind the heist, but the theft comes at a time when egg prices are rising due to supply chain disruptions and the ongoing avian flu outbreak. The high market value of eggs, especially organic ones like those stolen from Pete & Gerry’s Organics, could make them a lucrative target for resale. Additionally, food thefts have been increasing nationwide, suggesting that criminals may be taking advantage of soaring grocery prices. Investigators are likely exploring whether this theft was an inside job, a black-market operation, or part of a larger food theft trend.
Egg-flation Continues: Avian Flu and Shortages Drive Prices Sky High
The egg industry is grappling with significant challenges as the resurgence of avian flu continues to devastate poultry populations. The outbreak, which has led to the deaths of millions of egg-laying hens, saw nearly half of all bird fatalities in 2024 occur in November and December, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
As the flu takes its toll on egg production, the national price of eggs has remained a pressing issue, especially in the lead-up to the U.S. presidential election. Consumers and businesses, including restaurants, are still feeling the impact of both higher prices and limited supply.
In December, the average cost of a dozen large, grade-A eggs reached $4.15, up from $3.65 in November, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This represents a more than 36% year-over-year increase, as reported by the Consumer Price Index.
One notable response to the egg crisis comes from Waffle House, a beloved Southern diner chain. The restaurant has implemented a 50-cent surcharge per egg due to the “nationwide rise in cost of eggs,” with signs posted at its locations explaining the reason behind the extra charge. In a statement to CNN, Waffle House cited the ongoing egg shortage and indicated that the surcharge would be adjusted or removed depending on market conditions.
Unfortunately, as long as the avian flu persists, so will high prices. “Not to be the bearer of bad news, but we’re in this for a while,” Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, said in January “Until we have time without a detection, unfortunately, this very, very tight egg supply is going to continue.”