New York shuts down poultry markets—find out why and how it affects you
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For many, a trip to the market is more than just a routine errand—it’s a part of everyday life.
Whether picking up fresh poultry for a home-cooked meal or simply browsing familiar aisles, we often take for granted the availability of our favorite ingredients.
But now, New York has made a decision that’s causing concern among shoppers and vendors alike.
Governor Kathy Hochul has temporarily shut down live-poultry markets in several key areas of the state, citing growing concerns over bird flu.
This unexpected move has left many wondering—how serious is the risk, and what does this mean for the availability and price of poultry and eggs in the coming weeks?
Governor Hochul’s executive order mandates that affected poultry markets in New York City, Westchester, Suffolk, and Nassau counties close from February 7 to February 14 for a full disinfection process.
Even markets without reported bird flu cases must sell off their remaining inventory and stay closed for an additional five days post-cleaning. Any vendors who suspect bird flu in their flocks must immediately report it to the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Governor Hochul has emphasized that this measure is necessary to protect public health after seven cases of bird flu were detected in Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn earlier this month.
"My top priority will always be to keep New Yorkers safe, and I have directed our state agencies to use all available resources to ensure we are taking every measure necessary to keep the risk to the public low," Hochul stated.
Beyond poultry markets, bird flu is affecting wildlife as well. The Wildlife Conservation Society has reported that three ducks at the Queens Zoo and at least 12 birds at the Bronx Zoo have died from suspected avian influenza.
While lab tests are still pending, precautions are already in place—vulnerable bird species have been moved to protected areas, and monitoring efforts have been intensified with the help of city, state, and federal agencies.
This outbreak isn’t just an issue for New York. Across the country, bird flu has contributed to rising egg prices and, in a bizarre turn of events, even led to the theft of 100,000 eggs in Pennsylvania—valued at an estimated $40,000.
New York Attorney General Letitia James has warned businesses against price gouging, saying, "The bird flu is affecting poultry farms and causing a national shortage, but this should not be an excuse for businesses to dramatically raise prices."
In an unexpected development, a new strain of bird flu has been identified in dairy cows for the first time. Discovered through genome sequencing of milk in Nevada, this finding is now under investigation by the USDA and state agriculture officials.
While experts are still evaluating the potential risks, this adds another layer of complexity to an already concerning situation.
With live-poultry markets temporarily closed, some shoppers may notice fewer fresh poultry options and possible price increases on chicken and eggs. If you’re stocking up, it’s a good idea to be mindful of pricing and report any suspected cases of price gouging.
For those who buy from live markets or raise their own poultry, staying informed is key. Practicing good hygiene, keeping birds away from wild animals, and reporting any signs of illness can help prevent further spread.
As we navigate these market changes, we’d love to hear from you. Have you noticed a difference in your local grocery store? Are you taking any precautions when buying poultry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Also read:
New update: This treatment shows promising potential in protecting against bird flu
Protect yourself: The alarming new bird flu symptoms you need to know in 2025
Are your eggs a hidden health hazard? Discover the truth about the bird flu outbreak!
Whether picking up fresh poultry for a home-cooked meal or simply browsing familiar aisles, we often take for granted the availability of our favorite ingredients.
But now, New York has made a decision that’s causing concern among shoppers and vendors alike.
Governor Kathy Hochul has temporarily shut down live-poultry markets in several key areas of the state, citing growing concerns over bird flu.
This unexpected move has left many wondering—how serious is the risk, and what does this mean for the availability and price of poultry and eggs in the coming weeks?
Amid rising bird flu concerns, New York has temporarily shut down live poultry markets—what does this mean for consumers? Image Source: Pexels / Alexas Fotos.
Understanding the Shutdown
Governor Hochul’s executive order mandates that affected poultry markets in New York City, Westchester, Suffolk, and Nassau counties close from February 7 to February 14 for a full disinfection process.
Even markets without reported bird flu cases must sell off their remaining inventory and stay closed for an additional five days post-cleaning. Any vendors who suspect bird flu in their flocks must immediately report it to the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Governor Hochul has emphasized that this measure is necessary to protect public health after seven cases of bird flu were detected in Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn earlier this month.
"My top priority will always be to keep New Yorkers safe, and I have directed our state agencies to use all available resources to ensure we are taking every measure necessary to keep the risk to the public low," Hochul stated.
The Ripple Effects on Wildlife and Agriculture
Beyond poultry markets, bird flu is affecting wildlife as well. The Wildlife Conservation Society has reported that three ducks at the Queens Zoo and at least 12 birds at the Bronx Zoo have died from suspected avian influenza.
While lab tests are still pending, precautions are already in place—vulnerable bird species have been moved to protected areas, and monitoring efforts have been intensified with the help of city, state, and federal agencies.
This outbreak isn’t just an issue for New York. Across the country, bird flu has contributed to rising egg prices and, in a bizarre turn of events, even led to the theft of 100,000 eggs in Pennsylvania—valued at an estimated $40,000.
New York Attorney General Letitia James has warned businesses against price gouging, saying, "The bird flu is affecting poultry farms and causing a national shortage, but this should not be an excuse for businesses to dramatically raise prices."
A New Twist: Bird Flu Found in Dairy Cows
In an unexpected development, a new strain of bird flu has been identified in dairy cows for the first time. Discovered through genome sequencing of milk in Nevada, this finding is now under investigation by the USDA and state agriculture officials.
While experts are still evaluating the potential risks, this adds another layer of complexity to an already concerning situation.
With live-poultry markets temporarily closed, some shoppers may notice fewer fresh poultry options and possible price increases on chicken and eggs. If you’re stocking up, it’s a good idea to be mindful of pricing and report any suspected cases of price gouging.
For those who buy from live markets or raise their own poultry, staying informed is key. Practicing good hygiene, keeping birds away from wild animals, and reporting any signs of illness can help prevent further spread.
As we navigate these market changes, we’d love to hear from you. Have you noticed a difference in your local grocery store? Are you taking any precautions when buying poultry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Also read:
New update: This treatment shows promising potential in protecting against bird flu
Protect yourself: The alarming new bird flu symptoms you need to know in 2025
Are your eggs a hidden health hazard? Discover the truth about the bird flu outbreak!
