Still, a lack of eggs and steep prices may lead consumers to move to other cheap forms of protein, which could lead to consumer-induced shortages and price increases, one expert told USA TODAY. Egg-laying hens and broiler chickens – poultry raised for meat – are different,

For several months now, the United States has been facing a historic rise in egg prices. This daily staple in the kitchen has become a rare and expensive commodity, forcing some retailers to ration sales.

Eggs are a high commodity for many Texans, and keeping them in stock is getting harder and more expensive. Egg prices and shortages are already a concern due to a bird flu outbreak in the U.S., and consumers have experienced a surge in egg prices and limited supplies.

With the bird flu driving up the prices of eggs across the country, some people in Arizona are getting creative.

According to its website, the nationwide chain known for its waffles and crispy hash browns serves 272 million eggs at nearly 2,000 restaurant locations that are open daily around the clock. Waffle House has no Michigan locations – the closest looks to be an hour south of Detroit in Toledo,