The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has published new data on retail egg prices in Honolulu, showing significant changes between December 2021 and 2024. According to the Market Analysis and News Branch (MANB), the cost of a dozen locally produced eggs increased by 28.4%, rising from $6.91 to $8.87. Meanwhile, the price of imported mainland eggs surged by 51.8%, climbing from $5.50 to $8.35.
The substantial rise in mainland egg prices is largely attributed to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which has affected egg production across the continental United States.
From 2023 to 2024, local egg prices saw a modest increase of 2.7%, whereas mainland eggs experienced a larger rise of 6.2%.
Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture, commented on these trends: “The increase in local production of eggs has been closing the price gap with imported mainland eggs.” She emphasized the importance of food security in Hawai‘i, stating that "the avian influenza outbreak on the mainland is another example of why food security in Hawai‘i is so important. Supporting local farmers and ranchers helps to ensure our food supply."
In early November 2024, HPAI was detected at two locations on O‘ahu; however, no further cases have been confirmed since then, and no egg production facilities in Hawai‘i have been affected. The state was the last in the nation to detect HPAI, likely transmitted via migratory birds along the Pacific flyway.
HDOA continues its collaboration with local poultry producers to prevent HPAI from impacting flocks within Hawaii.