Coles has introduced an almost nationwide purchase limit on eggs as shortages linked to bird flu disrupt the supermarket giant’s supply.
The supermarket has limited customers to two cartons each at all stores except in Western Australia, after bird flu strain outbreaks prompted chicken culls, which led to fewer eggs being laid.
“Due to a shortage of supply on eggs, we have introduced a temporary limit of two items per customer/transaction,” signs across Coles supermarkets said.
“This will help maintain availability and support as many customers as possible.
“Thank you for your patience, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Egg suppliers told 9News Melbourne the situation was the worst they had seen in more than 20 years.
One supplier predicted the cost of a carton of eggs could potentially triple within the next few weeks.
9News has seen reports of shortages at Aldi and Woolworths today however the supermarkets do not intend to impose purchase limits in the immediate future.