Avian influenza boosts profits for Cal-Maine
Cal-Maine, the leading egg producer in the United States by both revenue and flock size, reported a threefold increase in profits during the first quarter of the year, according to its latest financial statement. The company recorded $1.4 billion in egg sales and $508 million in net income—more than triple the $146 million earned during the corresponding period in 2024.
This substantial growth in net sales was primarily attributed to a rise in the average selling price of shell eggs, driven by a constrained industry-wide supply resulting from avian influenza outbreaks during a period of heightened seasonal demand for eggs and egg-based products. Cal-Maine, responsible for approximately 20% of U.S. egg production, experienced a 4% reduction in its flock due to recent bird flu incidents and received $42 million in government compensation related to these losses.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice has initiated an investigation into Cal-Maine, examining the factors contributing to the nationwide escalation in egg prices.
