Independent retailers have been warned to expect egg shortages as farmers struggle with rising costs due to latest bout of avian flu. 

Last week, the British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) revealed a third of farmers had cut the number of their hens due to rising prices. 

The trade body also confirmed the average price of eggs had gone up by 45p, but only of quarter of that – between 9p and 10p – had been passed onto farmers, which isn’t enough to cover higher fees. 

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As a result, 165 farmers said they had temporarily or permanently ceased production. 

Shoppers in major supermarkets have complained of not being able to buy eggs in recent weeks, and further reports have hinted at the issuing of rationing in an effort to protect remaining supply. 

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