From farms to bakeries, egg shortages and price hikes are challenging small businesses

Small business owners that rely on eggs for their products are facing sticker shock as the avian flu sparks shortages and high prices for the usually reliable staple. Avian flu is forcing farmers to slaughter millions of chickens, causing U.S. egg prices to skyrocket. The average price of a dozen eggs reached $4.95 in January. From bakeries to restaurants, most owners are taking the increase in stride, just one of the many hurdles they constantly face. But if the problem persists, it could cause them to raise prices or adjust their product offerings.