Concerning detail on Woolies shelves

Empty egg shelves have been spotted inside Australian supermarkets and some purchase limits have been reintroduced amid an ongoing egg shortage.

The shortage stemmed from bird flu outbreaks and high seasonal demand, the Australian egg industry said.

The shortage first rocked Australian farmers and grocers six months ago, with some supermarkets imposing a purchase limit on eggs.

Fast-food chains were also impacted, with McDonald’s forced to strip back its beloved breakfast menu late last year.

Over the past week, Australian shoppers have spotted empty shelves and taken to social media to share their concern over the shortage.

“Yes, the other day at Jordan Springs NSW Woolies there were zero eggs available. Coles had some but they were limited to two cartons per customer,” one shopper said.

“None at my local or major Woolies, but I walked across to the Asian supermarket and they had plenty,” another added.

While supply started to pick up in spring, more strain was placed on egg availability over the Christmas period due to high demand.

“Australia’s egg industry is continuing to work to boost supply marketwide,” a Woolworths spokesperson told NewsWire.

“Our egg supply has continued to improve and we are working closely with our suppliers to source as many eggs as possible.”

Australian Eggs managing director Rowan McMonnies said national egg production still remained strong despite the challenges.

“It didn’t always feel like it, but national egg production was still strong despite the avian influenza losses, with egg farmers producing 18 million every day at the lowest point,” he said.

McMonnies urged anyone concerned about availability to buy eggs in advance, as they have a lengthy shelf life, and to “look a bit broader than your usual store”.

“The disruption means a few stores will run low but others will be stacked to the ceiling as there are still eggs about,” he said.

NewsWire has contacted Australian Eggs for further comment.