What's Happening?
Global egg consumption is anticipated to grow by 22% by the year 2035, with emerging economies expected to account for nearly 90% of this additional demand. This projection comes from the Global Egg Industry
Outlook 2035, a collaborative report by Rabobank and the World Egg Organisation (WEO). The global egg market, which was approximately 98 million metric tons in 2025, is forecasted to reach around 119 million metric tons by 2035. This sustained growth is attributed to eggs' affordability, high nutritional value, and versatility as a food source. Factors such as population growth, rising incomes, urbanization, and improved access to affordable protein are key drivers. While emerging markets are set to lead the volume increase, established markets are focusing more on product differentiation, animal welfare, and higher-value egg products. The industry has seen significant expansion, with global egg production reaching about 94 million metric tons in 2022, a substantial increase from 15 million metric tons in 1961, supported by advancements in genetics, feed formulation, and production efficiency.
Why It's Important?
This projected growth signifies a major shift in the global food landscape and presents both opportunities and challenges for the U.S. poultry industry and related sectors. For U.S. egg producers, while domestic consumption is also expected to rise (from 263.8 eggs per capita in 2025 to 285.1 by 2035), the primary growth markets will be overseas. This could lead to increased export opportunities for U.S. egg products or, conversely, increased competition from other global producers. The emphasis on product differentiation and animal welfare in mature markets, including the U.S., means producers will need to adapt to consumer preferences for cage-free, organic, and enriched eggs, requiring investments in new production systems. The continued expansion of egg consumption globally underscores the importance of maintaining stable production and distribution systems, especially given ongoing threats like highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which can disrupt supply and increase price volatility. The animal nutrition industry also stands to benefit from increased demand, as it will need to innovate to improve the productivity and efficiency of laying hen production sustainably.
What's Next?
The egg industry will likely see continued investment in local production capacity, particularly in emerging economies where demand is surging. For U.S. producers, adapting to evolving consumer expectations regarding animal welfare and sustainability will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness in domestic and international markets. This may involve further transitions to alternative production systems like cage-free or pasture-raised operations. Technological advancements, including automated monitoring systems, precision feeding, and data-driven management tools, are expected to play a larger role in optimizing performance and improving traceability across the supply chain. Stakeholders, including poultry producers, feed manufacturers, and food retailers, will need to focus on enhancing biosecurity measures and supply chain resilience to mitigate risks from diseases like avian influenza. Furthermore, research and development in layer nutrition will be critical to support increased productivity while ensuring animal health and welfare.
Beyond the Headlines
The global surge in egg consumption highlights broader trends in food security and nutrition, particularly in developing regions where eggs offer an accessible and high-quality protein source. This growth could contribute to improved nutritional outcomes in populations with rising incomes and increased access to diverse food options. However, it also raises ethical considerations regarding animal welfare on a larger scale, as the industry expands to meet demand. The shift towards value-added products and sustainable practices in mature markets reflects a growing consumer consciousness about food origins and production methods, potentially influencing global standards for animal agriculture. The relatively limited international trade of eggs (only about 2% are traded globally) suggests a strong emphasis on localized production, which could have implications for regional food economies and self-sufficiency. The industry's ability to balance efficiency, affordability, and responsible production will be key to its long-term sustainability and its role in global food systems.
