But there may be light at the end of the tunnel. The USDA reported last week that egg shortages are easing and wholesale prices are dropping, which might provide relief on the retail side before this year’s late Easter, which is three weeks later than last year. It said there had been no major bird flu outbreak for two weeks.

Egg prices again reached a record high in February, as the bird flu continues to run rampant and Easter and Passover approach. The latest monthly Consumer Price Index showed a dozen Grade A eggs cost an average of $5.

If prices remain high, it will be third year in a row consumers have faced sticker shock ahead of Easter on April 20 and Passover.