The cost of eggs at retail has surged in recent weeks, as higher commodity prices strain supply chains and force price adjustments on shelves. Figures from Assosia, examined by The Grocer, reveal that egg prices have climbed by up to 19.2% since early October alone. Almost one in five of the 134 tracked egg lines now show inflation, with seven products experiencing increases exceeding 10%.
Despite these sharp rises, year-over-year egg prices remain relatively stable, up by an average of just 2.9%. However, over a third of that increase has occurred within the past month. The surge stems from rapidly rising farmgate costs, which are now increasing at more than twice the general inflation rate. Agricultural input costs reached 7.8% over the year to September, the highest level since early 2023, compared to a 3.5% rise in the consumer price index.
For egg producers, feed expenses represent the most significant burden. According to Jason Gittins, technical director at ADAS, compound feed prices for laying hens have risen by 5% to 10% in the second half of 2026. Each £5 per tonne increase in feed costs adds roughly one penny per dozen eggs to production costs. Additionally, producers are facing higher prices for point-of-lay pullets, with costs up by about 40p per bird compared to six months prior.
“Short term cost reductions appear unlikely.” “We know household budgets are under pressure, so we work hard to balance great value with fair pay for our farmers and high welfare standards,” a Waitrose spokesperson told The Grocer. “While prices on a small number of eggs have changed, we continue to invest heavily across our broader range.” They continued: “Eggs are included in our Essentials range, still the largest value range of any UK supermarket, and the investment we have made in New Lower Prices gives our customers choice while helping to keep everyday essentials more affordable.”
