Australia is currently facing an egg supply shortage due to outbreaks of Avian influenza, leading to the euthanization of around 1 million affected hens. As a result, McDonald’s has decided to trim their breakfast hours by 90 minutes, serving breakfast only until 10:30 a.m. instead of midday. Supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths have imposed restrictions on the number of egg cartons customers can purchase, with a limit of two cartons per consumer.
The Australian government has reassured consumers that there is no impact on chicken meat supply at this time, with efforts being made to redirect egg supplies to areas experiencing the greatest shortages. While the H7 high pathogenicity avian influenza has affected multiple poultry farms, industry group Australian Eggs has assured the public that there are still over 20 million hens under the care of farmers working hard to ensure eggs are available on shelves.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand has confirmed that there is no evidence of people contracting the virus through properly prepared food, emphasizing that avian influenza is not a food safety concern. The organization has assured consumers that it is safe to eat properly handled and cooked chicken meat, eggs, and egg products. Despite the challenges faced by the poultry industry in Australia, efforts are being made to address the outbreaks and ensure a continued egg supply for consumers.
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