Many supermarket shelves remain empty across the country, as avian influenza and seasonal conditions continue to disrupt the supply of eggs.
Coles and Woolworths, along with other independent stores have told the ABC there is still a limited availability of eggs, after outbreaks of avian influenza early this year resulted in the culling of about 1.8 million birds.
Not-for-profit company Australian Eggs expected supply to pick as the weather warmed, but growth has been slow-paced, or stagnant, in many parts of the country.
Josh Murray started up his egg business when he was nine years old. (ABC Ballarat: Eden Hynninen)
‘Aftershock’
Joshua Murray is the founder of Josh’s Rainbow Eggs and sells in Coles, Woolworths and independent stores in Victoria and parts of New South Wales.
Mr Murray said customers were experiencing the aftershock of a devastating wave of avian influenza.
“There’s almost 2 million birds out of the supply chain and there’s no ability to import eggs,” Mr Murray said.
He said there was no overnight fix.
“We aren’t able to capitalise on any increased sales opportunity because we can’t ramp up production overnight.
“It takes an incredible amount of foresight and investment to increase production … so I think that’s why you’re not seeing many eggs on the shelf.”
Egg shortages have been affecting Tasmanians with egg purchase limits enforced at Woolworths. (ABC News: Fiona Breen)
It will take time
Egg Farmers of Australia chief executive Melinda Hashimoto said she was aware of the lasting effects of avian influenza, but said increasing numbers took time.
“Many people are not aware that hens do not start laying until around 16 weeks of age so when rearing flocks, there is a time needed for birds to grow into production and start laying eggs,” Ms Hashimoto said.
“Although there is a tight demand for eggs, this is not solely due to avian influenza.
“Hens’ production falls in winter with cold weather and shorter hours of light before we hit the spring flush.”
She said although some areas in Australia may see less eggs on the shelf, this is not nationwide.
“Many people are supporting local egg farmer shops and outlets such as fruit markets and local butchers who stock eggs.”
Fred Harrison says egg supply is up and down at his east coast IGA supermarkets. (ABC News: Kyle Harley)
‘Dribs and drabs’
Fred Harrison is the chief executive of Ritchies IGA and oversees more than 140 independent stores across the east coast of Australia.
He said supply across the country had been up and down.
“It comes in dribs and drabs,” Mr Harrison said.
“Some today, some tomorrow, some in two weeks time.”
