Egg Heist: 100,000 Eggs Stolen Amid Soaring Prices in Pennsylvania

In a shocking incident in south-central Pennsylvania, approximately 100,000 eggs were stolen from a distribution trailer belonging to Pete & Gerry's Organics. The theft occurred at 8:40 p.m. on Saturday in the Antrim Township borough of Greencastle. The stolen goods are valued at an estimated $40,000, raising concerns in a market already strained by rising prices and supply shortages.

The Pennsylvania State Police have initiated an investigation into the theft. However, as of Tuesday, a spokesperson for the department stated that no further details were available. In light of the incident, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Chambersburg bureau at 717-264-5161.

This theft comes against the backdrop of increasing egg prices across the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the rising prices can be attributed to a supply shortage caused by outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that U.S. egg prices are projected to rise by approximately 20% within the year. By the end of 2024, the average price per dozen eggs is expected to reach $4.10, which is double the cost observed in August 2023.

Saloni Vastani, an expert on agricultural economics, noted the impact of these rising prices on consumer behavior. She stated, "Egg prices are going up because of the avian flu, but that’s driving people to buy more eggs than they usually do because they’re anticipating higher prices and reduced grocery store supply."

The bird flu has affected various regions in the U.S., including recent outbreaks at duck farms in Merced County, California, and Long Island, New York. Furthermore, Massachusetts health officials have indicated that the bird flu is likely widespread in the state, even in areas without confirmed positive cases.

In response to the theft, Pete & Gerry's Organics has expressed its commitment to resolving the matter swiftly. A representative from the company stated, "We take this matter seriously and are committed to resolving it as quickly as possible."