Australia is currently facing an egg supply shortage due to bird flu outbreaks, leading to McDonald’s trimming breakfast hours by 90 minutes. About 1 million egg-laying hens have been euthanized to prevent the spread of the Avian influenza virus. Supermarkets have imposed limits on the number of egg cartons consumers can purchase, causing some shelves to be empty temporarily. The Australian government is responding to outbreaks of the H7 high pathogenicity avian influenza on 11 poultry farms, but assures that there is no impact on chicken meat supply at this time. Rowan McMonnies of Australian Eggs reassures consumers that there are still over 20 million hens producing eggs in the country. Food Standards Australia New Zealand states that properly prepared food is safe to eat and that there is currently no evidence of the virus being transmitted through food. Despite the challenges faced by the poultry industry, efforts are being made to ensure a continued supply of eggs for consumers in Australia.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
