Organic egg demand rises again

Demand for organic eggs has increased in recent months, driven by consumer interest in organic products and disruptions in the supply of conventional eggs. However, the supply chain has not kept pace with this renewed demand, leading to a potential shortage.

Organic laying hen numbers drop sharply

The number of laying hens raised organically has fallen by 18.5% since 2021, from 9.3 million to 7.58 million by 2025. In the first half of 2026, organic egg production dropped by 2.2% compared to the same period in 2025, and by 3.4% compared to 2024, according to the Agence Bio.

Challenges in organic feed transition

The decline in organic hens is partly due to the switch to 100% organic feed, which has increased costs and reduced productivity. Some farmers have moved to free-range farming instead, and industry groups note that this shift has created financial uncertainty for producers.

Regulatory changes add uncertainty

A 2022 change in organic regulations has disrupted the supply chain. The European Commission is considering extending a rule that allows 5% non-organic feed for pullets until 2036, rather than 2027. This delay has left producers unsure about their long-term planning and operations.

Heatwaves hit organic egg productivity

Intense heatwaves have damaged the productivity of organic hens, with some hens continuing to suffer reduced output even after the heat subsided. These environmental challenges have worsened existing supply chain issues, particularly in the organic and free-range sectors.

Organic egg sales rise in specialized stores

Despite supply issues, sales of organic eggs in specialized stores have increased by 11.9% in the first half of 2026. This growth is partly due to a shortage of conventional eggs in large grocery stores at the end of 2025 and the start of 2026, prompting some consumers to switch to organic options.

Sector struggles with long-term recovery

The organic egg sector has faced ongoing challenges since 2021, with operators hesitant to boost production after past production downgrades. With a 10.8% decline in day-old pullet placements, the sector lacks the resources to meet current demand, and a rapid recovery is not expected, according to the Agence Bio.