Empty egg shelves are becoming a familiar sight in grocery stores across the U.S., and it’s not just your local chain running low. A widespread bird flu outbreak wiped out nearly 19 million birds in January alone, sending egg prices through the roof and leaving supply lines scrambled. Some breakfast spots are even charging an extra fifty cents per egg just to keep up. (Source: AP News)
Forecasts point to a 41% price increase this year, and with some areas like California hitting $10 per dozen, people are getting creative. That includes driving to Mexico—where eggs go for around $2 a dozen. But that bargain comes with risk, and U.S. border officials are watching closely. (Source: San Francisco Chronicle)
Egg Runs to Mexico Are Happening — And They’re Getting Expensive
With over 200,000 cars crossing from Mexico to the U.S. daily, it’s not unusual for shoppers to stock up on cheaper groceries while they’re across the border. In fact, it’s pretty common. Dry goods, snacks, household items—no problem. But when it comes to fresh items like eggs, things get more complicated.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seen a major increase in egg seizures at the border. In San Diego alone, egg interception cases are up 158% from last year. While most of the eggs are willingly surrendered by travelers who didn’t know they couldn’t bring them in, the few who try to sneak them through can face a $300 fine—or more if it happens again. (Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
Why Eggs Are a Problem at the Border
It all comes down to disease control. U.S. regulations prohibit importing raw or fresh eggs from Mexico due to the risk of spreading bird flu or other avian illnesses. Even empty egg cartons can carry bacteria and disease. That’s why border officers are strict about any undeclared agricultural products, especially ones like eggs. (Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
Travelers can avoid penalties by declaring items at the border. Most people do, and their eggs are simply taken and destroyed—no harm, no fine. But for the few who try to bring them in quietly, the penalty adds up fast. Repeat offenses can cost as much as $10,000.
Egg Prices Are Soaring — And It’s Not Just the U.S.
While the U.S. looks for ways to stabilize the egg market, other countries are stepping in. Turkey has agreed to export 15,000 tons of eggs to the U.S. through July, and South Korea is also offering help. Still, international trade rules around egg imports are tricky, and nothing moves fast. In the meantime, Americans are stuck in a squeeze between limited supply and rising prices. (Source: Reuters)
For many, crossing the border just to save a few dollars on eggs might not seem worth it. But in border towns and areas hit hardest by price spikes, it’s become a real option—and a risky one at that. Knowing the rules matters. Because what seems like a quick way to cut costs can lead to an even bigger bill.
Alexander Clark is a financial writer with a knack for breaking down complex market trends and economic shifts. As a contributor to The Daily Overview, he offers readers clear, insightful analysis on everything from market movements to personal finance strategies. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for keeping up with the fast-paced world of finance, Alexander strives to make financial news accessible and engaging for everyone.
