The Nevada Department of Agriculture has announced the temporary suspension of its cage-free egg law to address the egg supply crisis and rising prices. Effective immediately, eggs for retail can be sourced from any producer that meets the necessary food-safety guidelines, regardless of whether the eggs are from hens raised in a cage-free environment, as reported by News 3 Las Vegas.
In 2021, the state required all eggs sold to come from cage-free hens, with each hen having at least one square foot of space, as per KTNV Las Vegas. However, this policy has been paused due to shortages and rising egg prices. Dr. J.J. Goicoechea, DVM, NDA Director, explained that eggs are an important, affordable protein for those facing food insecurity, stating, "Eggs are typically the most cost-effective protein source for food insecure populations." He also noted, "When families can’t find eggs on the shelf, and when they do the prices are not attainable, this can leave them without an essential food they depend on," as stated by News 3 Las Vegas.
A new order allows the sale of "Grade B" eggs, which meet the same food safety standards as "Grade A" eggs, despite differences in color, shape, and size. This follows Assembly Bill 171, passed during the 83rd Legislative Session, which allows the state to suspend cage-free regulations for up to 120 days during emergencies. The suspension, ordered by Director Goicoechea on Thursday, aims to address the egg shortage in Nevada. Director Goicoechea stated, "This egg shortage didn’t happen overnight, and we cannot resolve it overnight," and expects new egg supply contracts to be secured within 30 days, according to News 3 Las Vegas.
