Cal-Maine Foods says HPAI spread in cattle increases risks

The company said, “Outbreaks of HPAI have continued to occur in U.S. poultry flocks. In calendar year 2024, 40.2 million commercial layer hens and pullets were depopulated due to HPAI, and in calendar year 2025, an additional 39.0 million commercial layer hens and pullets have been depopulated through May. HPAI is currently widespread in the wild bird population worldwide and no farm is immune from HPAI. The extent of possible future outbreaks in commercial laying hens, with heightened risk during migration seasons, cannot be predicted. The widely reported spread of HPAI in dairy cattle increases risks to Cal-Maine Foods (CALM)’ operations and those of other egg producers. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the human health risk to the U.S. public from the HPAI virus is considered to be low. Also, according to the USDA, HPAI cannot be transmitted through safely handled and properly cooked eggs. There is no known risk related to HPAI associated with eggs that are currently in the market and no eggs have been recalled due to HPAI.”