Popular pub chain Wetherspoons has been forced to change its breakfast menu because of a shortage of eggs caused by a major outbreak of avian flu in the UK. Chefs at some of the chain's pubs are being forced to replace eggs with substitutes such as hash browns, sausages or onion rings as the avian flu crisis follows on from millions of birds dying during the summer heatwave.
Stores including the leading supermarket brands are in urgent talks on how to manage the egg crisis, while Wetherspoons is managing it by offering alternatives to their diners. Wetherspoons spokesman Eddie Gershon told The Sun: “We can confirm that there are temporary issues with egg supplies at some Wetherspoon pubs due to the current impact of Avian flu on egg production.
“We are experiencing issues in receiving all the supplies we require to satisfy demand in every pub. This is not specific to Wetherspoon and other hospitality operators and supermarkets are facing similar issues."
Back in August, the Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs said it was "deeply concerned" about the scale of chicken mortalities in industrial chicken sheds. Many of the birds, mostly broiler chickens bread for meat and not laying eggs, were dying from heat exhaustion.
The situation is not helped by farmers leaving the industry as rising costs impact on their business. This means fewer hens are laying eggs than ever before.
The UK is facing its largest outbreak of bird flu, with more than 200 cases confirmed on commercial premises, smallholdings and in pet birds since October last year. A farmer who was forced to kill his entire flock of 10,000 turkeys has warned of a potential shortage for Christmas.
Steve Childerhouse, 51, said producers had been “absolutely hammered” by the crisis, and that the usual stock levels of turkeys and geese are “just not going to be there” this festive season.
For stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
Find recommendations for eating out, attractions and events near you here on our sister website 2Chill
Find recommendations for dog owners and more doggy stories on our sister site Teamdogs
