Eggs scarcity Reasons & Plant based Alternatives

Introduction:

Egg scarcity is a global concern, driven by factors like Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), rising feed costs, climate disruptions, and growing demand. Consumers face fluctuating prices, leading many to explore plant-based alternatives as sustainable and nutritious options. The USDA attributes declining egg production mainly to HPAI outbreaks and has introduced measures such as biosecurity enhancements, farmer relief, and $100 million in avian flu research. HPAI has impacted about 30 million egg layers in early 2025, though detections eased in March.

Duration of Egg Scarcity:

The shortage is expected to persist through 2025, with improvements depending on how quickly egg-laying flocks recover and disease outbreaks stabilize. The duration may vary by region based on production capabilities, disease control, and supply chain adjustments.

Reasons for Low Egg Production in Various Regions:

1. North America (U.S., Canada)
   • Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreaks reducing flock sizes.
   • Rising feed costs due to supply chain disruptions and climate impacts.
   • Labor shortages affecting farm operations and transportation.
2. Europe
   • Avian flu outbreaks leading to flock culling.
   • Regulations on cage-free egg production, slowing down scaling efforts.
   • Energy costs making poultry farming more expensive.
3. Asia (India, China, Japan, Southeast Asia)
   • Extreme weather conditions disrupting poultry farms.
   • Higher demand with rapid urbanization increasing consumption.
   • Disease outbreaks like avian flu leading to temporary farm shutdowns.
4. South America (Brazil, Argentina, Chile)
   • Drought conditions affecting corn and soybean (key poultry feed).
   • Export demand limiting domestic egg supply.
5. Africa
   • Poultry diseases and limited veterinary infrastructure.
   • Import reliance leading to price volatility.
   • Feed scarcity due to poor harvests and inflation.
6. Australia & New Zealand
   • Transition to cage-free systems reducing short-term supply.
   • Feed costs and transport issues limiting production growth.

Several branded plant-based egg substitutes provide comparable nutrition to eggs, offering protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Here are some top options:

1. JUST Egg (U.S., Global)

• Main Ingredients: Mung bean protein, turmeric, canola oil
• Nutritional Benefits: High in protein (similar to eggs), cholesterol-free, fortified with B12
• Best For: Scrambles, omelets, baking

2. Follow Your Heart VeganEgg (U.S.)

• Main Ingredients: Algal flour (from microalgae), soy protein
• Nutritional Benefits: Good protein source, includes omega-3s, fiber-rich
• Best For: Baking, scrambled eggs

3. Crackd – The No-Egg Egg (UK, Europe)

• Main Ingredients: Pea protein, nutritional yeast
• Nutritional Benefits: Protein-rich, gluten-free, no cholesterol
• Best For: Omelets, quiches, scrambled eggs

4. Simply Eggless (U.S.)

• Main Ingredients: Lupin bean protein
• Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, fortified with vitamin D and B12
• Best For: Scrambles, baking, pancakes

5. Orgran Vegan Easy Egg (Australia)

• Main Ingredients: Chickpea and maize flour
• Nutritional Benefits: Good fiber content, cholesterol-free
• Best For: Baking, pancakes, quiches

Nutritional values of chicken eggs  Vs and popular plant-based egg substitutes:

Conclusion

The ongoing egg scarcity highlights the vulnerability of global food supply chains and the need for alternative solutions. While efforts to restore poultry populations and stabilize prices continue, plant-based egg substitutes provide a reliable, nutritious, and environmentally friendly option. Whether for ethical, health, or sustainability reasons, these alternatives are gaining popularity and can help bridge the gap during supply shortages. Consumers now have more choices than ever to maintain a balanced diet without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Please consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have allergies or specific nutritional needs. The availability and nutritional composition of plant-based egg alternatives may vary by brand and region.